The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to begin in North Texas, and federal security officials are preparing for the challenge of protecting visiting heads of state from around the world. Christina Foley, special agent-in-charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Dallas Field Office, is serving in a dual role during the tournament, overseeing security at team training sites, the FIFA Fan Festival, and World Cup matches in North Texas.
Protecting World Leaders
Foley’s team will be responsible for protecting multiple royal families, presidents, and other world leaders at the same time, in what federal officials have described as the most complex security operation in U.S. history. The Secret Service will work to minimize street closures associated with visiting dignitaries, and the public will be notified if larger-scale traffic disruptions become necessary during later rounds of the tournament.
Local law enforcement agencies will also be escorting team buses between airports, hotels, training facilities, and stadiums. Residents across North Texas may notice increased police motorcycle escorts and motorcades as World Cup events get underway. Japan has confirmed that Princess Takamado will attend Sunday’s Japan-Netherlands match in Dallas, and England is scheduled to play in North Texas less than a week later.
The British Royal Family has not announced any travel plans, although British media outlets have speculated that Prince William could attend if England advances into the later rounds of the tournament. Officials say many potential visits will depend on which teams continue to advance in the World Cup.
Security Preparations
Foley said the planning resembles the annual United Nations General Assembly in New York, when world leaders visit the city simultaneously and motorcades move throughout the area. The Secret Service’s protective intelligence and threat assessment division will gather and analyze information related to potential threats, and the agency will work with local law enforcement to respond to any incidents that may occur.
Foley acknowledged that intelligence gathering alone cannot eliminate every risk, but she is confident that law enforcement agencies throughout North Texas are prepared to respond if needed. The Secret Service will work to ensure a safe and secure environment for all attendees, including visiting heads of state, during the World Cup in North Texas.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
