Washington: The head of the White House's FIFA World Cup 2026 Task Force announced that the Trump administration is implementing extensive security and hospitality measures for the upcoming tournament to ensure it is safe and welcoming.
According to Anadolu Agency, Andrew Giuliani addressed reporters at the State Department's Foreign Press Center, emphasizing that safety and security are central to the preparations. He assured that the administration will do everything possible to make the World Cup a safe and successful event, highlighting the coexistence of security and hospitality.
Concerns were raised regarding the safety of non-citizens traveling to the US for the event, particularly following an incident involving an asylum seeker detained by ICE agents. Giuliani explained that the individual was detained for violating a temporary flight restriction with a counter-drone device, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized drone flights near stadiums during the games.
When questioned by Anadolu about efforts to reduce visa waiting times in Turkey, Giuliani noted that wait times have been reduced from 16 months to two, attributing the improvement to increased staffing. He mentioned the introduction of a 'FIFA priority appointment scheduling system' (PASS) for ticket holders, aiming to provide them with easier access to visa appointments.
Giuliani further stated that the administration's goal is to ensure as many people as possible have a legal pathway to visit the US. Addressing concerns about potential ICE raids during the World Cup, he indicated that discussions are ongoing and that the president prioritizes American citizen safety.
The World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to attract five to seven million international visitors. Giuliani emphasized the importance of legal entry, encouraging fans from the 42 visa-waiver countries to apply through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), while others must obtain a valid B1/B2 visitor visa. Federal coordination teams have been deployed in all 11 host cities to ensure a unified approach across the country.