FBI Director Kash Patel has issued a stern warning that the bureau will pursue "rigorous and relentless" action against anyone making "hoax threats" during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As preparations intensify for the quadrennial soccer tournament, the United States has already ramped up security and intelligence operations in anticipation of three million fans attending. Out of 104 matches scheduled for this year's expanded World Cup, 78 will be held across 11 American host cities.
Amid heightened terror concerns, Patel announced the FBI will be "cracking down" on false threats related to the major sporting event.
"With 78 matches in 11 U.S. cities across 39 days, one issue this @FBI is taking incredibly seriously during the tournament is hoax threats," Patel stated in an extensive post on X.
