Is Seattle Ready for the World Cup? Security Concerns Grow Before FIFA 2026

With FIFA World Cup 2026 matches just weeks away, questions are growing about whether Seattle is prepared to host one of the largest sporting events in the world. Seattle business leaders and city officials are debating security cameras, public safety, crime prevention, homelessness, graffiti, and overall readiness ahead of six World Cup matches at Lumen Field. Seattle Downtown Association CEO John Scholes and Seattle City Councilmember Rob Saka are urging city leaders to activate surveillance cameras near the stadium district before international visitors arrive. Meanwhile, concerns remain about tourism expectations, hotel bookings, public safety, and taxpayer-funded improvements tied to the tournament. Washington taxpayers have already invested $47 million in stadium and transportation upgrades connected to FIFA World Cup 2026. In this episode of Center Square Daily: ⚽ FIFA World Cup 2026 Seattle preparations ⚽ Lumen Field security concerns ⚽ Surveillance camera debate ⚽ Public safety and crime prevention ⚽ Homelessness and graffiti concerns ⚽ Tourism and hotel booking outlook ⚽ $47 million in taxpayer spending #WorldCup2026 #Seattle #FIFA #LumenField #PublicSafety #Politics #News #CenterSquare