FIFA Addresses Security Concerns Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Officials discuss impact of Iran war and Mexico cartel violence on tournament in United States, Mexico, and Canada

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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As construction races to finish the World Cup International Broadcast Center in Dallas, FIFA executives are addressing mounting concerns surrounding the 2026 World Cup, which is just 94 days away. The United States and Mexico, two of the host nations along with Canada, have been rattled by troubling security developments, including a military incursion in Iran and reactions from organized crime in Mexico following the killing of a major cartel leader. FIFA officials say they are closely monitoring the evolving global situation and working with federal partners to ensure the safety and security of the tournament.

Why it matters

The 2026 World Cup is set to be the largest in history, with games played across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Any security issues or team withdrawals could significantly disrupt the event and impact the experience for players, staff, media, and fans. FIFA is under pressure to address these concerns and ensure the tournament goes off without a hitch.

The details

FIFA's Chief Event Operations Officer, Heimo Schirgi, said the organization is working closely with federal partners and international counterparts to evaluate the situation day-by-day. He has spoken with the Iranian Football Federation but declined to disclose details. Schirgi expressed hope that all teams will be able to participate, stating "The World Cup is too big, and we hope that everyone can participate." Meanwhile, FIFA's Chief Business and Strategy Officer, Amy Hopfinger, acknowledged the dynamic global situation, saying "safety and security is a priority" and something the organization thinks about "every day" in its planning.

  • The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19.
  • Construction on the World Cup International Broadcast Center in Dallas is expected to be completed by May 18, when international reporters begin arriving.

The players

Heimo Schirgi

FIFA's Chief Event Operations Officer, who oversaw the 2018 Russia and 2022 Qatar World Cups.

Amy Hopfinger

FIFA's Chief Business and Strategy Officer.

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What they’re saying

“If I had a crystal ball, I could tell you now what is going to happen. Obviously, the situation is developing; it's changing day by day. And we are monitoring closely. We're working together with all our federal partners and also our international partners in evaluating the situation. And we basically take it day by day.”

— Heimo Schirgi, FIFA's Chief Event Operations Officer (dallasnews.com)

“The dynamic shifted over the last two weeks, whether in Mexico or in the Middle East. It will continue to shift over the next 94 days, but safety and security is a priority for us. It's at the forefront of everything we're doing in the planning. It's something we think about every day.”

— Amy Hopfinger, FIFA's Chief Business and Strategy Officer (dallasnews.com)

What’s next

FIFA officials say they will continue to monitor the evolving global situation and work closely with federal and international partners to ensure the safety and security of the 2026 World Cup. They are hopeful that all teams will be able to participate, but acknowledge that the situation remains fluid and could change in the coming months.

The takeaway

The 2026 World Cup faces significant security challenges due to geopolitical tensions and organized crime, testing FIFA's ability to deliver a safe and successful tournament across three host nations. The organization's focus on safety and security, and its willingness to adapt plans as the situation evolves, will be critical in the months ahead.