WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced more than $1.1 billion in new federal funding to bolster security for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and combat the growing threat of illegal drone activity across the United States.
The agency published its Fiscal Year 2026 Notices of Funding Opportunity for two major initiatives: the FIFA World Cup Grant Program and the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program. Together, they represent one of the largest coordinated security investments ahead of a global sporting event in U.S. history.
Under the FIFA World Cup Grant Program, FEMA will allocate $625 million to the 11 U.S. cities hosting tournament matches. The funding is intended to help local governments enhance safety and preparedness through training, cybersecurity measures, staff background checks, and expanded law enforcement and emergency response at venues, hotels, and transportation hubs.
“Nothing is more important to President Trump than protecting the American people,” a FEMA spokesperson said in announcing the initiative. “The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to be the largest sporting event in history, so it must also be the safest.”
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees FEMA, is coordinating with state and local officials to preempt potential threats — from terrorism to criminal drone activity — that could disrupt the international tournament.
Complementing the World Cup initiative, the new C-UAS Grant Program will provide $500 million over two fiscal years to strengthen detection and response systems against unlawful drone operations. In 2026, $250 million will be directed to nine states and the National Capital Region that are hosting FIFA World Cup matches or America 250 national celebrations. The remaining funds will be distributed in 2027 to all 56 states and territories, broadening national capacity to monitor and neutralize drone threats.
Both programs were authorized under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, signed into law by President Trump in July.
Applications for the FY 2026 C-UAS and FIFA World Cup Grant Programs opened October 28 and will close December 5, 2025.
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