Diplomatic Security Service—A Critical Link for FIFA World Cup 2026™ Security

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U.S. DEPARTMENT of  STATE


 

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06/10/2026 10:34 AM EDT

By DSS Media Relations Specialist Eric Weiner

The U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) leads U.S. security coordination with the U.S interagency, and international counterparts for major events overseas, including the Olympic and Paralympic Games and G7 and NATO Summits. For the FIFA World Cup 2026™, which the United States is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada, DSS will support the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the federal agency in charge of security efforts.

Because the tournament spans three countries, DSS serves as a critical link between U.S. security operations and international partners, working closely with Mexican and Canadian authorities to strengthen cross-border coordination and information sharing.

To be held from June 11-July 19, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ represents an unprecedented security undertaking across three nations, 16 host cities, and millions of spectators. The Department of Homeland Security chairs the Special Event Working Group, and the U.S. Secret Service leads federal security operations. As the security and law enforcement branch of the State Department, DSS contributes unique expertise in international coordination, dignitary protection, and specialized threat response.

“The World Cup presents a unique opportunity to demonstrate the strength of our domestic and international law enforcement partnerships and our shared commitment to public safety,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Diplomatic Security Service Director Nicholas Collura. “DSS is proud to support this effort by connecting law enforcement, security, and diplomatic partners across borders to help ensure a safe and successful tournament.”

Leading Cross-Border Security Coordination

DSS will establish and lead a Joint Coordination Center (JCC) in Mexico to facilitate real-time coordination among FIFA, U.S. government partners, and Mexican authorities. OSAC will also operate from the JCC, providing daily situational reports, stakeholder meetings, and real-time information exchange over dedicated comms channels to help U.S. private-sector organizations protect their personnel, facilities, and operations throughout the tournament.

Partnering with Host Cities and Foreign Missions

DSS field offices are working with local, state, and federal partners in each host city to support comprehensive security planning. DSS personnel serve on FIFA planning committees nationwide and play an important role in dignitary and VIP protective operations.

DSS also maintains close engagement with the Consular Corps in host cities, serving as a key liaison between foreign missions and FIFA on security matters. In coordination with the Bureau of Consular Affairs and the Office of Foreign Missions, DSS provides specialized training to state and local law enforcement on Consular Notification and Access requirements, as well as diplomatic and consular immunities.

Training Partners for Tournament Security

DSS conducted extensive training to strengthen operational readiness ahead of the tournament:

  • The DSS Weapons of Mass Destruction Division works with interagency partners on the Joint Hazard Assessment Team (JHAT) to detect and assess chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. DSS hosted and participated in JHAT exercises supporting FIFA World Cup 2026™ preparedness.
  • DSS Major Events personnel trained law enforcement officers from Mexico, Peru, and El Salvador at the International Law Enforcement Academy in San Salvador on dignitary protection, major event planning, and operational medicine.
  • In Boston, DSS partnered with Mobile Security Deployments, the Massachusetts State Police, and regional SWAT teams to conduct dignitary protection exercises in preparation for securing Boston Stadium during seven FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches.

Ensuring a Safe and Successful Tournament

Through international coordination, protective operations, specialized training, and advanced threat response capabilities, DSS will help ensure the FIFA World Cup 2026™ showcases world-class security cooperation alongside world-class soccer.


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