Special Events Task Force Chairman McCaul Visits Audi Field Ahead of FIFA Club World Cup

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman of the Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States — conducted a site visit to Audi Field, a location for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

“As our nation prepares to host millions of international visitors for major events, we must create safe experiences that showcase the United States’ leadership and commitment to excellence," said Task Force Chairman McCaul. "Ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, I met with FIFA staff and White House officials today at Audi Field, where we held a robust discussion on ways to enhance public safety at this summer’s events — from facilitating swift information sharing and detecting unauthorized drone use to preventing lone wolf attacks. With terrorist incidents on the rise across our nation, I’m proud this task force — which includes colleagues who served in our military and as first responders — is laying the groundwork to secure our mass-spectator events by ensuring all levels of government, law enforcement, and private-sector partners are well-equipped to detect and mitigate threats.” 

Following the site visit, the Committee on Homeland Security announced the list of committee members on the task force, which is chaired by McCaul, who also serves as the chairman emeritus and current vice chair of the full committee. Below is a list of the members appointed to the bipartisan Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States:

Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas)

Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.)

Rep. Dale Strong (R-Ala.)

Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.)

Ranking Member Nellie Pou (D-N.J.)

Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.)

Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-N.J.)

Representatives Gimenez and Pou joined Chairman McCaul at Audi Field. 

“The Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events sends a clear message: we’re leaving nothing to chance,” said Rep. Gimenez. “As the Mayor of Miami-Dade County, I led efforts to secure global events that drew millions of visitors from around the world. With the U.S. set to host large-scale events, like FIFA 2026, the 2028 Olympics, and America’s 250th birthday, we must act now. Ensuring a safe and successful execution will require strong coordination among federal, state, and local partners so that every traveler and every community can enjoy these celebrations safely and confidently.”

“I’m honored to join this task force at such a critical moment for our nation. As a lifelong first responder, I know firsthand the unique challenges mass-gathering events present—and why they often become targets for those who seek to do harm,” said Rep. Strong. “As the United States prepares to welcome the world for events like the World Cup and the Olympics, we must ensure every measure is taken to protect the safety of our citizens and guests while preserving the spirit of these global celebrations. This task force will aid coordination efforts among federal, state, and local authorities – including law enforcement and emergency services."

“As America prepares to host several major global competitions in the coming years, it is imperative that we provide a safe environment for our citizens and international guests,” said Rep. Crane. “By proactively establishing this critical task force, we will work closely with the administration to solidify operational readiness. I am grateful for the leadership of Chairman Green and Task Force Chairman McCaul, and I am honored to be part of this zero-fail mission.”

Background: 

The Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States was established earlier this year to conduct oversight of security preparations ahead of major upcoming international events, including the 2028 Summer Olympics, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the 2025 Ryder Cup, and the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026. As part of the committee’s oversight of National Special Security Events (NSSEs) and major Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) events, members of the task force will visit additional event sites in advance, hold hearings, host roundtables, and release a final report on their findings and recommendations. 

Prior to Congress, Congressman McCaul served as chief of counter terrorism and national security in the U.S. attorney's office, Western District of Texas, and led the Joint Terrorism Task Force charged with detecting, deterring, and preventing terrorist activity. And during the 113th-115th Congresses, he served as the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, leading the investigations into the Boston bombing to correct deficiencies at the FBI and CIA, and revamping how these agencies communicate with one another. He also led the Foreign Fighter Task Force, which enabled rapid legislative responses to the Paris Attacks.

###