Massive Law Enforcement Presence Planned for Super Bowl in San Francisco Area

Federal and local agencies coordinate extensive security measures for the big game

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Department of Homeland Security is leading a 'substantial law enforcement presence' in the San Francisco Bay Area for the week leading up to Super Bowl Sunday, with hundreds of federal agents working alongside local police departments to provide security for the event. Concerns include lone wolf attackers, drone threats, and cyberattacks.

Why it matters

The Super Bowl is designated as a SEAR 1 event, meaning there is extensive federal security coordination. This heightened security presence aims to ensure public safety and prevent any potential attacks or disruptions during one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

The details

Federal agencies including the FBI, ATF, U.S. Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will be providing support and resources to state and local law enforcement. Authorities are also concerned about issues like human trafficking and drug trafficking that often accompany major events.

  • The enhanced security measures will be in place for the week leading up to Super Bowl Sunday.

The players

Jeff Brannigan

The Department of Homeland Security federal coordinator overseeing the security efforts.

Brian Clark

The associate chief of operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration's Pacific and Southwest region, who is also providing support for the event.

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What they’re saying

“We have multiple command centers that we are operating as the federal government in concert with our local partners. It's a broad footprint with a lot of personnel. Some are uniformed and, very clearly, government officials of some way.”

— Jeff Brannigan, Department of Homeland Security federal coordinator (ABC News)

“For Super Bowl events, you have a lot of human trafficking that comes in. You'll also see a lot of drug trafficking that comes in the area for parties and things … So we would like to say for people to be aware, to have that conversation. Take this time, when you're gathering with your friends and family, have that conversation about the dangers of fentanyl, because one pill, one time can kill.”

— Brian Clark, Associate chief of operations, DEA Pacific and Southwest region (ABC News)

What’s next

The heightened security measures will remain in place through Super Bowl Sunday, with law enforcement agencies closely monitoring the situation for any potential threats or incidents.

The takeaway

The extensive security coordination for the Super Bowl in the San Francisco area highlights the significant resources and planning required to ensure the safety of such a high-profile event. It also underscores the ongoing concerns about issues like terrorism, human trafficking, and drug trafficking that can accompany major gatherings.