Washington has not yet delivered the promised funds to the cities involved in organizing the World Cup, meaning some scheduled events may not take place.
O (known as the FIFA Fan Festival) scheduled for the in Miami, is at risk of not taking place if the city does not receive, within 30 days, the federal funds promised by Washington. The alert was left by Ray Martínez, director of operations for the FIFA World Cup host committee.
Although funding for host cities was assured through the budget package approved last year, – described by the administration of Donald Trump as the biggest dhe’s a guyo –, the payment of the funds also depends on the approval of US Federal Emergency Management Agency, responsible for operationalizing the grant program.
Without this transfer, organizers fear consequences.
“There are 107 days left until the start of the tournament and the next 30 days are decisive. Without this funding, the impact on planning and coordination could be catastrophic”, he warned Martínezcited by the newspaper “AS”.
With experience in organizing Super Bowl LIV, in 2020, the official highlighted that, although South Florida is used to large sporting events, holding a fan festival for 23 consecutive days in downtown Miami, represents an unprecedented challenge.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected to travel to the region during the competition, many of whom must watch the games in public areas as they cannot get tickets to the stadium.
Concerns extend to other cities involved in the tournament. Representatives from New Jersey and Kansas City They also reported delays in the availability of federal funds.
“With only four months to go, it is unacceptable that these cities have not yet received the money. If the Department of Homeland Security will have responsibilities for this event, it needs to ensure transparency, coordination and compliance with deadlines. The World Cup is a global stage and we must demonstrate that we are prepared. Time is running out”, said the congresswoman Nelly Forfrom New Jersey, also mentioned by “AS”.
The FIFA Fan Festival brings together, over more than 20 days, football, music and culture, in an event aimed at fans of the 48 national teams in the competition.
