The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the successful and secure delivery of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, which it hailed as the largest sporting event in history, showcasing American exceptionalism and shattering records without major security incidents.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin praised the collaborative effort, stating, "In one of the most complex security environments we’ve faced, DHS and our components helped deliver a safe and secure tournament while showcasing American exceptionalism." He thanked state, local, and federal partners for their round-the-clock work in keeping millions of fans and visitors safe across 38 days and 78 matches on U.S. soil.
The comprehensive security operation involved numerous DHS components, including CBP, CISA, FEMA, ICE, HSI, USSS, TSA, USCG, and others. Key achievements included the seizure of over 700 unauthorized drones by DHS and FBI, more than 19,000 vehicle inspections by CBP, and the confiscation of over 473,000 counterfeit FIFA merchandise items valued at more than $33 million.
Furthermore, ICE and HSI efforts led to over 673 criminal arrests on human trafficking charges, rescuing 61 adults and 13 minors. HSI's intellectual property rights enforcement also resulted in 48 arrests and 164 seizures of counterfeit goods worth over $85 million MSRP. The tournament, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, was the first to expand to 48 teams.