The FIFA World Cup 2026 was the largest single-sport event in history, bringing millions of fans and athletes to cities and towns across the United States this summer. While fans were focused on the action on the pitch, public safety professionals were working around the clock to ensure a safe and secure experience. Behind the scenes, the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network, or FirstNet, was helping first responders stay connected, so they could communicate, coordinate, and respond to whatever came their way during matches and other World Cup events.
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As host to the most World Cup games in the United States, public safety officials in Dallas, Texas, had a significant amount of preparation to do. With Fourth of July festivities and potential hurricane evacuations also on the horizon, local leaders worked with FirstNet and other commercial carriers to ensure they had the connectivity and interoperability needed to communicate with local, state, federal, and international partners.
Law enforcement agencies in New Hampshire tested their piloting skills with FirstNet-connected drones. By bringing together departments of all sizes and experience, regional agencies exchanged best practices, enhanced operations, and strengthened partnerships.
In the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), public safety agencies built a communications system focused on redundancy, on-island assets, and trained local expertise. With a whole-community mindset, CNMI public safety agencies are using tools like FirstNet to help them be self-reliant, especially during the critical first 72 hours after disaster strikes.
The 2026 World Cup will create unprecedented operational demands on the host city communities especially Arlington, Texas and the surrounding area. Emergency Management Administrator for the City of Arlington, Irish Hancock shares his three tips for how to prepare for the world's biggest sporting event.