KSHB 41 reporter Charlie Keegan covers politics in Kansas, Missouri and at the local level. Share your story idea with Charlie.
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Federal, state and Kansas City-area leaders met Thursday morning to review nearly $80 million in federal funding for the area for security during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Last fall, federal lawmakers earmarked $625 million in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to help states and cities prepare for security challenges during the World Cup.
An additional $500 million in the OBBBA was earmarked for “counter-unmanned aircraft systems” to help local, state and other agencies address airspace risks from unauthorized drones.
“Now I’m thinking about drones overhead, maybe we need that,” said Grant Wheeler, a soccer fan at Brick House. “Extra security can’t hurt, especially if we’ve got however many, six Super Bowls worth of people here — 650,000 more people in this city, I think it could be a big help.”
U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II (D - 5th District, Missouri) said Thursday the region received $59 million from the FIFA World Cup Grant Program, $14.2 million for counter-drone efforts and $6.1 million for public safety and transportation projects.
"As a host city, our responsibility is clear: deliver a safe, secure and seamless experience for fans while protecting our local community," Cleaver said Thursday. "This federal funding strengthens security coordination, modernizes transportation infrastructure and ensures our first responders and transit systems are equipped to handle a global event of this scale."
"When the world comes to Kansas City, they will be met with a community that is prepared, resilient and ready to welcome our neighbors from across the globe," Cleaver continued.
The Kansas City area is poised to be one of the busiest host cities during the 2026 World Cup.
In addition to hosting six matches at Kansas City Stadium (GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium), the region will serve as a base camp home for Algeria, Argentina, England and the Netherlands.
“I’m happy we’re doing it. You only get a chance to do something like that once in a lifetime," said Bill Kramer, a sports fan at Tower Tavern.
To help fans take in the experience, KC2026 is also coordinating the FIFA Kansas City Fan Festival at the National World War I Museum and Memorial. The Fan Festival is set to open for at least 18 days between June 11 and July 11.
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