Security concerns, responses reviewed by federal intelligence officials ahead of World Cup

Federal intelligence officials on Tuesday coordinated with law enforcement authorities to go over security protocols before the FIFA World Cup kicks off next month.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) said more than 100 officers from across the intelligence community, as well as state and local law enforcement partners, joined in on the symposium that covered potential threats to the event spanning the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Some of those prospective challenges include safeguarding against drug trafficking, cyber attacks, said officials with the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) tasked with leading the appropriate response in case of a threat to the games.

“We are working strategically through interagency coordination to ensure the intelligence community is postured and fully engaged with law enforcement elements to support the safety and security of all Americans and visitors attending events across the 16 host cities,” Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said in a statement.

Counterterrorism authorities said they will be running threat assessments and security planning for the host cities before the world’s biggest sporting event kicks off June 11 in Mexico City.

The NCTC said it will continue to provide intelligence and screen for dangers throughout the course of the tournament as well, including those that are directed at certain teams or athletes.

The ODNI also said it is working with the White House FIFA World Cup Task Force, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security on safety protocols for the event, expected to draw more than 5 million fans from around the globe, the bulk to the U.S., which will host 78 of the tournament’s 104 matches.