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Lawmakers Weigh Security Threats for World Cup and LA28 in Closed-Door Briefing

Organizers pointed to Paris 2024’s cyber onslaught as the clearest warning.

Overview

  • Task force chair Rep. Michael McCaul identified cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, online radicalization and unmanned drones as the primary concerns.
  • Members pressed for robust public‑private information sharing and coordination with foreign partners to prepare for evolving risks.
  • Some lawmakers, including Rep. Nellie Pou, criticized FIFA and LA28 officials for declining public testimony in favor of confidential sessions.
  • LA28 officials said they worked inside Paris 2024’s Cybersecurity Operations Center and returned with lessons, particularly on countering drones.
  • French agency ANSSI logged more than 140 cyber incidents during Paris 2024, and LA organizers underscored the scale of 2028 as akin to multiple Super Bowls per day; Utah’s 2034 Games are expected to receive National Special Security Event status though the designation is not yet official.