Gov. Kehoe hosts officials to discuss World Cup security plans

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Gov. Mike Kehoe was joined by federal, state and local leaders Monday in Jefferson City to discuss security preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City, where he also signed an executive order activating the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan.

Officials said the meeting included Andrew Bailey, co-deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with representatives from the Missouri Department of Public Safety, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri National Guard and local agencies, including the Kansas City Police Department.

The discussion focused on planning for World Cup matches and related events expected to bring hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Kansas City area.

Following the meeting, Kehoe signed the executive order, allowing state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions and respond more quickly to security and emergency needs tied to the international event.

The order also authorizes the Missouri National Guard to assist local law enforcement with security operations during matches and surrounding events.

A press conference followed the meeting, featuring remarks from Kehoe, Bailey, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves and KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer.

During the briefing, Kehoe said the state has been preparing for years through coordination across multiple agencies, focusing on crowd safety, emergency response and real-time communication.

Bailey emphasized that partnerships between federal, state and local law enforcement in Missouri are among the strongest in the country and will play a key role in ensuring a safe and successful event.

Officials say preparations will continue in the coming weeks as Kansas City gets ready to host six World Cup matches, along with fan events and activities tied to the tournament.

The executive order remains in effect through July 31, 2026.