From Voon Miaw Ping
VIENNA, June 11 (Bernama) -- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is assisting Mexico in strengthening nuclear security measures for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Security Director Elena Buglova said the agency had received a request from Mexico to provide support for the tournament.
“The IAEA is committed to supporting countries in implementing nuclear security measures during major public events.
“Following Mexico’s request, the IAEA provided assistance to further strengthen the country’s capabilities, including training and loan of radiation detection equipment,” she said, during a journalists programme at the IAEA headquarters here.
The IAEA provides threat analysis and technical expertise to member states on the prevention, detection, and response to malicious acts involving nuclear or other radioactive materials, Buglova said.
She said the IAEA has been helping member states beef up security measures and preparedness against nuclear threats since 2004 with the Olympic Games in Greece.
To date, the agency has supported almost 90 major public events in 49 countries worldwide. More than half were sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in 2025, and the 29th SEA Games in Malaysia in 2017.
Non-sporting events include cultural, political, and religious gatherings.
Buglova, however, said the United States (US), one of the three co-hosts of the FIFA World Cup 2026 alongside Mexico and Canada, did not request IAEA assistance.
She said the US has robust capabilities and extensive experience in securing major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, and regularly shares its expertise and lessons learnt with other countries through the IAEA.
The FIFA World Cup 2026, which starts today until July 19, will see 48 teams competing in 104 matches across Canada, Mexico, and the US.
The tournament will kick off at the Mexico City Stadium, with Mexico playing against South Africa.
Mexico will host 13 matches and seven team base camps.
– BERNAMA
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