Photo: Shutterstock The US Transportation Security Administration, TSA, has announced comprehensive preparations for the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will kick off today (June 11, 26) and will be considered the largest soccer tournament ever held.
The World Cup will be held for the first time in three host countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 78 of the 104 matches, including the knockout stages and final, being held in 11 cities across the United States over the course of just 39 days.
The TSA considers the World Cup to be one of the largest transportation events in history, which has resulted in the mobilization of extensive resources to maintain the safety of passengers and participants.
Among the technologies that will be deployed at airports: the TSA PreCheck system with contactless biometric identification, advanced body scanners to reduce manual screening, computed tomography (CT) systems with artificial intelligence-based image analysis, and hundreds of sniffer dog teams that will perform scans of passengers, luggage, and cargo.
In addition, the Authority will deploy special security teams at busy airports, strengthen the VIP escort system, and activate dedicated units to secure stadiums and central transportation hubs. As part of the preparations, the absolute ban on operating drones in the vicinity of airports, stadiums, and World Cup sites will also be emphasized, with violation of the guidelines potentially leading to confiscation of the equipment, fines, and even legal proceedings.
Just before the opening whistle, the TSA urged visitors to have valid identification, arrive prepared for security screening, and utilize the dedicated information and assistance services established for the tournament, with the aim of ensuring a safe, fast, and smooth travel experience for the millions of fans expected to arrive in North America.