It’s going to be the world’s largest football shindig, but also the one under the most scrutiny. Whether it’s a no-drone policy or a four-legged patrol, the authorities on all three sides of the border are in the process of erecting a security net that you can’t miss when you get there.
Why this one is being put under a microscope
We’re talking 16 host cities and well over five million people. To handle that kind of volume, officials are layering on some new forms of oversight. You can count on biometrics, digital ticketing and other surveillance to be on hand to head off any trouble and keep the lines from stalling.
But there is a price for all that technology. With so much to be checked at the door – from your face to your ticket to a physical screening – you’re better off giving yourself a 2- or 3-hour buffer before the first whistle.
The tools of the trade: from your face to a robot hound
AI is what makes it tick. At the concourses and entry points, facial recognition will be running your face through their books to flag anyone who should not be in the stands, they say.
Then there is the hardware. In places like the International Broadcast Centre in Dallas, you may spot a Hyundai-made robot dog on the prowl. They have the sensors and cameras to cover ground and go where a person might not fit as easily.
When the sky is off-limits
They are also looking up. The FAA and local law are hardening the airspace around the fan zones and stadiums to put an end to any would-be drone shows or other interference.
And if you don’t comply, the fine is no joke. A drone within a nautical mile of a venue can cost you up to $75,000 in civil penalties, or $100,000 if it’s criminal. They will also take your device and possibly you.
Manpower
All the tech in the world doesn’t do away with the need for boots on the ground. Tens of thousands of them are being put in position across the three countries to be on top of things at the stadiums, in the transport hubs and in the nightlife spots.
In Mexico, for instance, you have 99,000 federal troops, marines, National Guard and private contractors at the ready. It’s a show of force to make sure matchday goes without a hitch.
A test run on opening night
Everything will be put to the test in Mexico City to start the tournament. The world will be watching how the operation runs at the gates and in the air, not just the game itself.
Fixture spotlight
Mexico vs. South Africa is the one to mark down for Friday, June 12 (12:30 AM IST / 2:00 PM local on the 11th) at the Estadio Azteca. Expect a lot of eyes on that one.
What to do with your time
Preparation is key to a painless entry. Most of the venues here in the US, Canada and Mexico are being very particular about clear bags, so don’t bother with a big rucksack and have your stuff ready to be looked at.
Do this and you won’t have to worry on the day of the match:
– Be at the stadium 2 to 3 hours early
– Don’t flash your valuables
– In Mexico, don’t be out and about after dark
– Use the designated routes for getting around
– Only bring the cash and cards you need
– Have the FIFA and local transit apps on your phone
The fan zones and the way to the turnstiles are where the pickpockets and phone snatchers are. Be on your guard in line and put your phone in a pocket until you are in your seat.
Looking at it from the top
It’s more than a matter of having the right equipment; it is about making everyone feel secure. The goal is to let the show go on while the biometrics and the rules in the air do their job of protecting the players and the crowd.
If we don’t see any hiccups in the first few games, this could be the way forward for any event of this size. The message to the fans is simple: come in with plenty of time, don’t overpack and be prepared for a little extra attention.
