World Cup: Trump government worries and invests to reinforce security

The cost of security for the World Cup is high and may not be enough to prevent all threats.

The Trump administration has reportedly spent R$1.2 billion (US$250 million) since December to help American cities prepare to face threats involving drones, according to a report by Front Office Sports.

"When it comes to anti-drone measures, everyone is a little behind," Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said during a House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee hearing. "Drones are my biggest concern. (...) We improve every day, but this is an issue that concerns us a lot."

The statement drew attention, especially as the first World Cup games start on June 11.

The 11 host states, in addition to Washington, D.C., received part of a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The resources will be allocated to tracking and neutralizing unauthorized aircraft and drones.

On game days, planes and drones will not be able to operate within a 3.5 mile radius (approximately 5.6 kilometers) of stadiums or fly below 3,000 feet (approximately 914 meters). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is implementing flight restrictions in the vicinity of the 11 stadiums used for the tournament.

California received the largest share of resources. SoFi Stadium in Inglewood will host eight matches, including a quarterfinal on July 10. Added to the six matches in Santa Clara, California will be the American state with the highest number of games.

"We have acquired a comprehensive, multi-layered detection and mitigation system to address the threats posed by unauthorized drones," the Los Angeles Police Department told Front Office Sports.

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Source: CNN