White House World Cup Task Force Exec Dir Andrew Giuliani said that preparations for the event “have been fantastic” and it will be a “success as long as fans feel safe, secure, whether you’re American citizens, whether you’re visiting for the World Cup.” Giuliani, speaking at the Atlantic Council on Tuesday, said fans can expect “multiple perimeter checks from security” and “checks while you get onto public transportation to make sure that you’re a valid ticket holder.” Giuliani said so far, 35 teams “have come into the United States,” and “no players, no coaches have been denied.” He added officials who have been denied were “for good reason.” Giuliani: “We’re striking that balance between making sure that any bad actors that come into the country or try to come into the country under the guise of the World Cup will not get access.” Giuliani said Somali referee Omar Artan being denied entry was “for very good reason.” Giuliani: “I support that decision.” He added some Iranian officials who are “not coming in” is also for a “very good reason.” Giuliani said all the players on the Iranian team “have had their visas issued” and “they’re going to be able to come into the country the day before their match.” Giuliani on any security threat to the World Cup said, “Right now there are no credible threats” (SBJ).
World Cup Task Force head Giuliani touts safety prep, defends entry denials
