FBI Director Kash Patel said the FIFA World Cup brought in 6.5 million fans worldwide, hosting the equivalent of 78 Super Bowls in just over a month — and zero “major security incidents.”
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup was the largest sporting event in the history of the world, shattering previous attendance record by double digits,” Patel posted Sunday on X. “America — we got it done, ZERO major security incidents across our nation while we hosted the equivalent of 78 super bowls in 38 days, along with 40 base camps, endless fan zones, and celebrations in nearly every state.”
He gave credit to multiple federal and state law enforcement agencies, including international cooperation, which Patel told Fox News was a “critical component” to establishing security.
Along with the actual matches, law enforcement was also responsible securing dozens of base camps across the country and maintaining public safety in fan zones and events. Patel said more than 700 drones were employed. “We’re not taking any chances,” he said.
President Donald Trump applauded law enforcement on Truth Social following the conclusion of the World Cup.
Trump made an appearance on Sunday during the World Cup finals, sitting behind bulletproof glass with FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the match between Spain and Argentina.
“The World Cup turned out to be a spectacular SUCCESS! I want to thank all of those involved but, in particular, our GREAT Law Enforcement. The Respect that everyone has for them, together with their Love of our Country, kept this Great Championship the Safest and Most Spectacular World Cup in History, BY FAR,” he said.
