Washington, Dec 4 (NationPress) The White House has announced that the United States is entirely ready to host the most significant sporting event ever, vowing to provide a safe, welcoming, and unforgettable FIFA Men's World Cup in 2026 for the millions of fans anticipated to come from all over the world.

During an international press conference on Wednesday (local time), Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, stated that President Donald Trump had issued a direct order: "ensure the country delivers a safe, welcoming, and memorable World Cup." He added that this initiative has evolved into "the largest whole-of-government sporting event operation ever undertaken in the United States."

Giuliani referred to the 2026 tournament as a moment of "tremendous privilege," noting that it would coincide with the 250th anniversary of America's Independence, with a match set to be held in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026. "It gives us a chance to show the very best of America -- our hospitality and innovation -- while also showcasing the American spirit of which we're so proud of," he remarked.

He emphasized that the World Cup will encompass "48 countries, 104 matches, 49 team base camps, and millions of international visitors," asserting that the economic boost would benefit tourism, infrastructure, local businesses, and the 11 American host cities. "This is truly a global moment for unity," he added.

Giuliani noted that the economic boost would significantly support tourism, hospitality, infrastructure, and local businesses across the 11 host cities. "This is more than a competition. This is truly a global moment for unity," he reiterated.

He highlighted that the White House Task Force has made historic strides in areas such as security, transportation, intelligence, hospitality, and travel over the past several months. "We expect between 5 and 7 million international visitors. To handle this unprecedented scale, we have deployed federal coordination teams in all 11 host cities, providing local access to federal expertise and resources to ensure a cohesive approach across the nation," he explained.

At the core of the preparations is an unprecedented focus on safety. "Our commitment is simple: We will do everything in our power to make these games and this tremendous World Cup a safe, successful one," he stated. "Security and hospitality can and will coexist."

He also mentioned over USD 1 billion in federal funding for security measures, including "$625 million through the FIFA World Cup Grant Program" for law enforcement and emergency response, and "$500 million… to combat unlawful drones." The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are in the process of establishing an international police coordination center, while the National Weather Service will deploy advanced heat-risk forecasting tools.

Giuliani elaborated on enhancements to US travel systems to accommodate the expected influx of "5–7 million international visitors." Improvements will include modernized screening lanes, eGate identity verification, streamlined international connection security, and close collaboration with airlines, Amtrak, rideshare companies, and city transport systems.

A significant focus has been placed on reducing visa wait times for nations likely to send large groups of fans. "Over 80 percent of countries globally allow fans to secure a visa appointment in under 60 days," he stated, noting the addition of "over 450 extra staffers" at US consulates worldwide. He reported that more than 300,000 additional visas have already been issued, with expectations that numbers will reach "millions by early next year."

When questioned about immigration regulations, Giuliani reaffirmed that the administration is welcoming to international visitors while maintaining strict security checks. "Every visa decision is also a national security decision," he emphasized. Regarding nations under the President's travel restrictions, he clarified that exemptions apply to World Cup teams, their direct support personnel, and immediate family members.

On questions surrounding potential enforcement actions during the tournament, he responded: "The President does not rule out anything that will help make American citizens safer." However, he assured that fans entering legally should expect "an unbelievable experience here."

Giuliani explained that security perimeters around all venues have been redesigned "like a Super Bowl," featuring multiple ticket checks and designated fan zones for ticketless supporters. He characterized the 2026 event as fundamentally different from the 1994 World Cup due to its scope, security requirements, and the unique three-country hosting arrangement. The tournament draw is set for December 5.

The last time the US hosted the FIFA World Cup was in 1994, a tournament recognized for significantly enhancing long-term interest in football across the nation.