Preparing for CBRN Threats at Major Global Events: The Road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be one of the most watched and attended global sporting events in history, spanning host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As millions gather, safety and security professionals must confront a growing and complex threat: CBRN hazards. In a world of evolving risks and increasing access to dangerous materials, preparing for potential CBRN threats at major public events is more urgent than ever.

Why CBRN Threats Are a Growing Concern at Global Events

Large-scale public gatherings are prime targets for malicious actors seeking to create disruption, fear, and chaos. While cyber and physical security threats often dominate the headlines, the silent danger of CBRN attacks remains underappreciated by the public. Past incidents such as the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack and the 2001 anthrax letters in the U.S. highlight how chemical and biological threats can cause widespread harm and panic.

According to the CBRNe World, a leading publication in the field of CBRN defense, global events pose unique vulnerabilities due to the density of people, the variety of venues, and the difficulty of conducting rapid evacuations. The upcoming World Cup, with games scheduled across multiple countries and regions, magnifies these risks and necessitates a coordinated international response.

The Unique Challenges of Hosting Events Across Multiple Cities and Countries

Unlike a single-location event, the 2026 World Cup will take place in over a dozen major cities across three nations. This decentralized format introduces logistical complexity for law enforcement, emergency responders, and public health agencies. Each host city must have localized CBRN preparedness plans while aligning with a broader regional and international framework.

In metropolitan areas, the presence of public transit systems, hotels, fan zones, and stadiums increases the number of potential exposure points. Moreover, the climate and environmental conditions in each region—ranging from high heat in southern U.S. cities to air pollution in urban centers—can exacerbate the impact of a CBRN incident.

Learn more about one of our latest blogs to learn more about FAST-ACT products in extreme temperatures: Dry Decontamination in Extreme Cold Conditions Field Test with FAST-ACT

What Governments and Agencies Are Doing to Prepare

Recognizing the urgency, agencies around the world have started enhancing their preparedness measures for CBRN threats. The upcoming CBRNe Summit USA 2025 by Intelligence-Sec will bring together professionals from defense, law enforcement, and emergency response to share strategies for mitigating risks during major public events.

In the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are investing in technologies, training programs, and simulation exercises to improve coordination between local and federal authorities. Additionally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are implementing advanced screening protocols to detect hazardous substances at entry points and venues.

As discussed throughout this blog, large-scale global events require a coordinated and proactive approach to CBRN threat mitigation. To explore these challenges in more detail, including how to implement decontamination strategies for critical infrastructure, we invite you to watch our webinar. In this session, our experts share practical insights on preparing for chemical threats ahead of events like the World Cup and Olympics, focusing on real-world applications, response planning, and how FAST-ACT fits into a comprehensive preparedness strategy.

We invite you to watch our webinar on Decontamination Strategies for Critical Infrastructure Ahead of Global Events:

FAST-ACT’s CBRN Response Training Course

Preparedness is only as strong as the people behind the plan. That’s why FAST-ACT offers a specialized CBRN Response Training Course designed for first responders, security personnel, and emergency managers preparing for major public events.

Our course includes:

• Hands-on decontamination training with FAST-ACT products
• Scenario-based exercises for stadiums, transit hubs, and high-density venues
• Best practices for rapid deployment and integration with incident command structures
• Custom training modules tailored to the needs of your agency or event

Participants leave with a clear understanding of how to detect, assess, and neutralize chemical threats using proven FAST-ACT protocols. The course empowers teams to act confidently in high-pressure environments—whether it’s a major sporting event, concert, or political gathering.

How FAST-ACT Supports Rapid and Effective CBRN Response

FAST-ACT Dry Decontamination is designed for exactly these types of high-risk scenarios. Our product line is the first and only solution in the market that immediately neutralizes a broad spectrum of toxic chemical agents, including chemical warfare agents (CWAs), toxic industrial chemicals (TICs), and hazardous materials commonly found in improvised threats.

Key advantages of FAST-ACT include:

• Rapid deployment: FAST-ACT products are portable and require minimal training, making them ideal for use by first responders during emergencies.
• Broad-spectrum effectiveness: Our technology can neutralize a wide range of chemical agents, reducing the threat on contact.
• Versatility: From stadiums and transit hubs to mobile command posts and public gathering areas, FAST-ACT adapts to diverse environments.

By integrating FAST-ACT into national and local CBRN response plans, agencies can gain valuable time and effectiveness during a chemical incident—time that could save lives and prevent mass panic.

Building a multi-layered CBRN defense strategy for CBRN preparedness is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires layered defense strategies involving:

• Detection: Using advanced sensors and analytics to identify chemical or radiological anomalies early.
• Deterrence: Visible and well-trained security presence to discourage malicious actors.
• Decontamination: FAST-ACT and similar solutions allow for rapid neutralization and cleanup, minimizing long-term exposure.
• Communication: Clear public messaging and interagency coordination during an event are essential.

A truly resilient security strategy must account for not just traditional crowd control, but also the silent, invisible threats that CBRN hazards represent.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws closer, the world’s eyes will be on North America. With that spotlight comes responsibility—not just to deliver an unforgettable fan experience, but to ensure the safety of every attendee, worker, and resident. CBRN threats, while rare, demand preparedness, vigilance, and innovation.

FAST-ACT is proud to support first responders and public safety officials with proven tools for rapid chemical threat response. To learn more about how FAST-ACT fits into your preparedness strategy or to schedule a product demonstration, check out our product line or contact our team.