Trump administration to allocate USD 500 million to combat drones ahead of 2026 World Cup - Politico

The White House is preparing to launch a USD 500 million program to help states and cities build anti-drone security strategies ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico and other large-scale events. This was announced by Andrew Giuliani, director of the White House task force on the 2026 World Cup, Politico reports.

The funds, included in the budget of the US Department of Homeland Security, will be available to all 50 states, and the priority is to protect 104 matches in the United States. According to the plan, police in host cities will use portable systems to detect and jam or forcibly return drones.

"From governors to police chiefs to stadium security managers - everyone says this is necessary to protect the World Cup facilities," Giuliani said.

It is worth noting that currently in the US only federal agencies have the authority to intercept drones. Therefore, the Administration is studying the option of temporary permits from the Ministry of Justice for local law enforcement agencies if Congress does not pass the relevant law. Previously, White House counterterrorism adviser Sebastian Gorka emphasized that drones have "enormous potential for both good and evil," so increased control is necessary.

The 2026 World Cup will be the first in history to feature 48 teams in the finals. The matches of the 23rd World Cup will be held in 16 cities in three countries at once. These will be: in Canada - Toronto and Vancouver, in Mexico - Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey, in the USA - Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle.

The opening match of the World Cup will be held on June 11, 2026 in Mexico City, and the final match will be hosted by New York on July 19.