The USA has allocated $250 million for drone protection during the 2026 World Cup: which states will receive the funds

Security at the 2026 World Cup

According to Главком: The USA has allocated $250 million to 11 states to counter drones during the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the USA from June 11 to July 19. This decision was made due to the need to ensure safety during the large-scale sporting event that will unite 48 teams for the first time.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced that the funds can be used to develop capabilities for detecting, identifying, and tracking drones, as well as for countermeasures. A representative from the agency emphasized the importance of swift actions to ensure safety at the championship in light of increasing threats related to unmanned aerial vehicles.

The Championship and Ukraine's Participation

The 2026 World Cup will be a landmark event, as for the first time in its history, it will feature 48 teams. It is important to note that the Ukrainian national team is also participating in the qualifiers. The semi-final playoff for Ukraine is scheduled for March 26, 2026, where the team will meet the national team of Sweden. The last qualifying match for Ukraine against Iceland ended with a victory of 2:0, which increased the chances of participating in the final tournament. The goals in this match were scored by Zubkov in the 83rd minute and Hutsulyak in the 90+3rd minute.

The allocation of funds for drones underscores the growing focus on security at international sporting events, especially in light of current threats. The 2026 World Cup promises to be not only a sporting event but also an important test for the security system in the USA and neighboring countries. Ukraine's participation in the playoff highlights its aspirations on the international sports stage, which can enhance the country's image on a global scale.