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U.S. DEA intensifies operations to combat substance abuse at 2026 World Cup

“The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) remains committed to helping keep host cities safe and preventing accidental drug poisoning,” said the anti-narcotics agency.

• June 12, 2026
DEA AGENTS (AP Photo/Mike Balsamo)
DEA AGENTS (AP Photo/Mike Balsamo)

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration has announced that the agency will deploy additional resources to tackle drug abuse during the period of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a statement on Thursday, the agency reassured its commitment to keep thousands of fans attending the tournament across different venues in the United States away from drug poisonings.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off today, bringing thousands of fans together to celebrate the world’s biggest soccer event. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) remains committed to helping keep host cities safe and preventing accidental drug poisoning.

“Through coordinated enforcement, targeted education, and proactive outreach, the DEA works to protect communities from substance misuse and abuse,” the DEA said. 

The World Cup kicked off in Mexico City on Thursday, with co-hosts Mexico beating South Africa’s Bafana Bafana 2-0 amid multiple red cards at the Estadio Azteca.

The first 2026 World Cup match on American soil will take place on Saturday, with co-hosts the United States facing Paraguay at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood. 

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