MIRAMAR, Fla. — FBI Miami officials announced Friday that comprehensive security preparations are in place for the 2026 World Cup matches scheduled in South Florida, with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies coordinating extensive safety measures for the international sporting event.
WATCH BELOW: 'You will regret the decision if you come down here with bad intentions,' Miami Police Chief Manuel "Manny" Morales says
FBI Co-Deputy Director Andrew Bailey led a press conference at the FBI Miami office, joined by South Florida law enforcement partners to outline security protocols for matches and fan festivities planned for June and July in the region.
Federal Task Force Leads Security Coordination
President Trump established a White House task force on FIFA through executive order during his first 100 days in office, with the FBI leading interagency security efforts, according to Bailey. The massive event will feature 48 national teams, 104 matches across 11 U.S. host cities, and an anticipated 5 to 7 million international visitors over 39 days of activities.
"Florida will be the epicenter of these games," Bailey said. "The United States is ready, South Florida is ready, and Miami is ready."
Strict Drone Restrictions Enforced
The Federal Aviation Administration has established temporary flight restrictions around World Cup venues, including Hard Rock Stadium and the Fan Festival at Bayfront Park, officials announced.
Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles emphasized that drone operations are strictly prohibited in these areas, with violators facing civil penalties, criminal fines up to $100,000, up to one year in prison, and drone seizure.
"There will be no grace period for violators," Skiles warned.
Jeffrey Vincent, FAA Southern Regional Administrator, detailed that unauthorized drone flights are prohibited within a 3 nautical mile radius of host stadiums up to 3,000 feet above ground level.
Multi-Agency Collaboration Strengthens Security
Miami Police Chief Manuel "Manny" Morales highlighted the year-long preparation efforts and warned potential bad actors against targeting South Florida events.
"What you see behind me is the reason why you will regret the decision if you come down here with bad intentions," Morales said, referencing the assembled law enforcement partnership.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass encouraged public vigilance, directing residents and visitors to report suspicious activity through the 1-855-FLA-SAFE hotline.
WATCH BELOW: 'Florida will be the epicenter of these games,' FBI Co-Deputy Director Andrew Bailey says
Enhanced Airport and Transportation Security
TSA Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl announced augmented security resources and advanced technology deployment at Miami International Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Miami Metro bus stations, and rail systems including Brightline and Tri-Rail.
The transportation security measures aim to ensure "safe, secure, and seamless movement of travel" for the anticipated influx of international visitors, Stahl said.
Why This Matters Now
The 2026 World Cup represents the largest international sporting event in U.S. history, with Miami receiving the highest number of ticket requests among all host cities. The comprehensive security preparations demonstrate the scale of coordination required between federal, state and local agencies to protect millions of visitors while maintaining normal community operations.
Bailey addressed concerns about potential chaos similar to incidents at Hard Rock Stadium two years ago, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies have extensive experience hosting major events including Super Bowls and concerts.
The FBI official confirmed no specific credible threats exist but noted ongoing vigilance against potential risks including drone activity, lone wolf attacks and cyber scams targeting ticket buyers.
Security zones will be established around venues, with officials advising ticketless fans to attend designated fan fest events rather than attempting to access game locations.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
