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World Cup 2026 Host Cities Face Fan Fest Crisis Amid Funding Delays
Several U.S. Host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are threatening to scale back or cancel fan fests and related events due to a delay in the release of $625 million in federal funding earmarked for security. The funds, initially announced in July 2025 by President Donald Trump, have yet to reach municipalities, creating a significant hurdle as the tournament approaches.
Political Gridlock Stalls Security Funds
The delay stems from a ten-day shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) triggered by a budget dispute between Democrats and Republicans. This impasse impacts the allocation of funds overseen by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is responsible for administering resources to the host cities. The situation is further complicated by disagreements in Congress regarding funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Cities Express Urgent Concerns
Officials from Miami, Kansas City, and New Jersey have voiced their concerns during a hearing before the House Committee on Homeland Security, stating they are still awaiting the promised funds. Nellie Pou, a representative from New Jersey, criticized the situation, stating, “With only about four months to move before the tournament begins, these cities still haven’t received the funds. This is completely unacceptable.”
The lack of funding has already forced some cities to make challenging decisions. A fan fest originally planned for Liberty State Park in New Jersey has been canceled and replaced with smaller-scale events. Miami’s organizing committee director, Raymond Martinez, highlighted the tight timeline, emphasizing the urgency of securing funds for construction of fan fest infrastructure.
Economic Impact at Risk
Kansas City anticipates hosting 650,000 visitors and organizing 18 days of fan fest activities. Local law enforcement officials stress the critical need for the funding. Joseph Mabin, vice chief of the Kansas City Police Department, stated, “It is absolutely crucial that we secure this funding. The deadline is rapidly approaching.” The 2026 World Cup is expected to attract approximately 5 million fans to the United States alone, making robust security and well-organized fan experiences essential.
Trump’s Involvement and the FIFA Peace Prize
President Trump has been closely involved with FIFA, announcing the World Cup draw location and establishing a White House Task Force for the 2026 tournament. In December 2025, FIFA awarded Trump its inaugural “FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World” during the World Cup draw ceremony in Washington.
FAQ
Q: What is causing the delay in World Cup security funding?
A: A budget dispute between Democrats and Republicans led to a shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, halting the release of funds.
Q: Which cities are most affected by the funding delay?
A: Miami, Kansas City, and New Jersey have publicly expressed concerns about their ability to host planned fan fests without the promised funding.
Q: How much funding is currently delayed?
A: $625 million in federal funding is currently delayed.
Q: What was Donald Trump’s role in the 2026 World Cup planning?
A: President Trump announced the location of the World Cup draw and established a White House Task Force for the tournament.
Did you grasp? The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches.
Pro Tip: Stay updated on the latest developments regarding the 2026 World Cup by following official FIFA announcements and news from host city governments.
Interested in learning more about the preparations for the 2026 World Cup? Read the BBC’s report on the draw location announcement.
