EXCLUSIVE: FBI Director Kash Patel discussed the agency’s extensive operation to secure the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first hosted in the United States in over three decades. This monumental task, equated to managing security for 78 Super Bowls over just 38 days, marked the largest commitment of FBI resources for a sporting event.

During his interview with Fox News Digital, Patel emphasized the success of the operation: We’re proud to report no significant criminal attacks during the World Cup, thanks to the hard work of the FBI and its partners. Approximately 6.5 million people attended 78 matches across 11 venues in the U.S.

The tournament set attendance records and attracted millions of international visitors. The FBI dedicated nearly 5,000 personnel to ensure security, including 4,000 from field offices and 800 from headquarters. Support also came from 59 Homeland Security Task Forces.

The Bureau conducted about 300,000 background checks on players, coaches, and accredited personnel. Nearly 7 million fans attended games across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico without major security incidents. Stadium entry averaged under 15 minutes despite having over 65,000 in attendance per match.

The FBI’s operation addressed evolving drone threats aggressively. Recognizing potential threats from drones surveilling teams or delivering explosives, the FBI treated unauthorized drones as immediate risks. If you’re in the space, we’re gonna take you down, Patel stated, explaining the removal of over 700 drones.

The agency established its first dedicated counter-UAS school in Alabama to train local officers in drone detection and interception. These trained officers were part of ground-intercept teams at World Cup venues, forming a nationwide counter-drone capability.

Patel highlighted preparations against drones potentially deploying explosives or chemicals. The counter-drone program was influenced by former Deputy Director Dan Bongino. Such measures were tested when a coordinated attack targeting UFC Freedom 250 at the White House was discovered. Federal prosecutors alleged plans to use drones equipped with explosives to create panic.

The suspects were tracked in a six-state operation, thwarting the attack before it initiated. Eight defendants are charged but remain innocent until proven guilty.

The FBI also hosted the International Police Cooperation Center in Virginia, where U.S. officers collaborated with foreign security officials from tournament nations. A Joint Operations Center was established, with police representatives from 46 participating countries, allowing real-time threat intelligence.

Patel commended the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup, convened by President Donald Trump and led by Andrew Giuliani, for unifying federal, state, and local agencies in their security strategy. The task force enabled coordinated resource deployment across the U.S. host cities.

International fans praised their experiences in the U.S., enjoying local culture and generating significant revenue. Videos online showed fans enjoying American dining, venues, and amusing experiences, such as Europeans discovering ranch dressing.

Patel attributed economic success to these partnerships, concluding that the World Cup provided a memorable experience for visitors and brought billions in revenue to the U.S.