New Delhi, Feb 25 (NationPress) With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just over three months away, representatives from the host cities—USA, Canada, and Mexico—have expressed serious concerns that security preparations are significantly behind schedule, leading to apprehensions about potential major disruptions when the tournament kicks off on June 11.

During a hearing before the United States House Homeland Security Committee, local officials pointed to two primary issues: a halt on federal security funding and inadequate coordination between federal and local entities, according to a report by the West Australian.

The funding challenges arise from a recent decision by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to limit its operations to what it characterizes as “bare-minimum, life-saving operations” due to the federal government shutdown. Consequently, nearly USD 900 million earmarked for World Cup security has been frozen, as noted in the report.

This suspension includes USD 625 million intended for host cities to oversee extensive security measures aimed at safeguarding players, fans, and infrastructure. Additionally, USD 250 million was allocated to assist host states in enhancing their capabilities to monitor and counter drone activities.

Mike Sena, president of the National Fusion Centre Association, informed lawmakers that these delays have put cities in a difficult position. “If we had been discussing this two years ago, we might have been in a much better situation; however, as we near these games, we find ourselves lacking in the necessary capabilities,” he stated.

In Miami, organizers indicate that the financial uncertainty is already impacting their plans. Ray Martinez, chief operating officer of the Miami World Cup Host Committee, cautioned that time is of the essence.

“We are just 107 days away from the tournament, but more critically, we are about 70 days away from beginning the construction of the Fan Fest,” he mentioned.

Miami has requested USD 70 million in federal assistance. Without a decision by the end of March, Martinez warned that events would have to be scaled back.

“These decisions must be made soon. If this money is not secured, it could be devastating for our planning and coordination,” he added.

In other locations, officials in Foxborough, Massachusetts, have indicated they might withdraw from hosting seven planned matches at Gillette Stadium if funding is not restored. Authorities in Kansas City have also raised concerns about staffing shortages. Deputy Police Chief Joseph Mabin stated that his department does not have enough personnel to meet the city's security needs, emphasizing that federal support is crucial for hiring additional officers.

The expanded 48-team tournament is scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The opening matches will occur in Mexico on June 11, with the United States playing its first match the following day in Los Angeles. Australia will commence its campaign in Vancouver before facing the United States on June 20 at Lumen Field in Seattle. Australia will then conclude its group stage matches against Paraguay at Levi's Stadium on June 26.

As the countdown progresses, city officials warn that if funding and coordination issues are not swiftly addressed, the world's premier football tournament may encounter significant logistical and security challenges.