World Cup host cities ‘running out of time’ with $625m in funding held up by shutdown

Guardian Sport

by Pablo Iglesias Maurer

February 24, 2026

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World Cup host cities are facing a critical funding crunch as $625 million promised for security remains blocked due to the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. Local officials from Miami, Kansas City, and New Jersey—set to host 21 matches, including the final—have yet to receive federal funds, raising concerns about the impact on planning just 100 days before the tournament begins. This delay could force the cancellation of fan festivals and other events, potentially disrupting preparations for one of the largest sporting spectacles in the world. The funding was initially pledged last July under the Trump administration’s “big beautiful” policy bill, which aimed to address security measures for major events like the World Cup. However, the shutdown has halted the release of these funds, leaving cities unprepared to meet their obligations. Representatives from host locations testified before the House committee on homeland security, emphasizing the urgency of resolving this issue to avoid further delays or cancellations. The situation highlights the broader challenges posed by the partial government shutdown, which continues to affect various sectors beyond sports. With the 2026 World Cup a major international event, any setbacks in planning could have far-reaching consequences for both organizers and fans. The delay not only threatens security measures but also risks damaging the reputation of the host cities and the overall integrity of the tournament. Sports enthusiasts should care about this issue because it underscores the interconnectedness of politics and major global events. A failure to secure adequate funding could lead to a less memorable World Cup experience, with potential disruptions affecting both players and spectators. The situation also raises

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/24/2026