The partial US government shutdown has created uncertainty around $625 million in security funding designated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With fewer than four months until the tournament begins, host cities are still awaiting formal distribution of federal funds. The delay has introduced operational challenges during a decisive phase of preparation.
Congress approved the $625 million allocation last summer through President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was signed into law on July 4, 2025. More than seven months later, the money has not been authorised for release to the 11 US host cities.
FEMA funding delay complicates host city preparations
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is tasked with administering the World Cup security grants.
Due to the government shutdown, FEMA personnel responsible for processing applications are on leave, pausing movement on the approved funding.
According to The Athletic, Carlos Gimenez, a congressman representing Florida, said at a House Committee on Homeland Security hearing earlier this week that the funds will not be distributed until the government reopens.
That delay leaves local organisers without confirmed federal backing as final operational plans take shape.
Three officials from host cities and a security association testified that the funding pause is affecting safety preparations.
Impact debate continues as tournament approaches
Others involved in tournament planning have suggested that the concerns may be somewhat overstated. Three individuals familiar with the preparations indicated that the delay has primarily complicated equipment procurement rather than undermined the overall security structure.
Even so, the absence of firm funding assurances has created uncertainty for host city representatives ahead of the World Cup.
Officials left a recent meeting with the White House World Cup Task Force without clear guidance on when the money would be released.
The World Cup remains set to begin in the United States this summer, but the timing of federal security funding now hinges on when full government operations resume.
Until then, host cities continue preparations without access to the $625 million allocated to support tournament safety.
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