The Santa Monica Police Department announced Thursday an increased public safety presence focused on tourist destinations and other high-traffic areas amid the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Santa Monica will host several activations and community events throughout the tournament, which includes eight games at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
The department expressed that the deployment is a proactive effort to support safety, a welcoming atmosphere, and well-managed public spaces as residents, visitors, businesses, and soccer fans gather across the city, noting that officers and professional staff will be available in high-activity areas with additional support from SMPD’s downtown Substation.
Coordinated effects with city departments, event organizers, regional law enforcement partners, the Santa Monica Fire Department, Big Blue Bus, downtown Santa Monica, Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, and other public and private partners during the tournament will be in effect to assist with public safety and information.
Police listed several public safety efforts, which include:
— Increased foot, bicycle and vehicle patrols in high-traffic areas;
— Additional visibility near event sites, parking structures, transit stops, and pedestrian corridors;
— Traffic safety and crowd management support as needed;
— Coordination with event security teams and regional public safety partners;
— Real-time monitoring of public safety conditions through department resources; and;
— Ongoing public updates through SMPD and city communication channels.
The SMPD encouraged visitors and residents to plan ahead, use public transportation when possible, allow extra travel time, and remain vigilant of their surroundings.
”This is an opportunity to showcase the best of Santa Monica,” Chief Darrick Jacob said, adding that the department wants people to come, enjoy the city, support local businesses, and celebrate responsibly.
Anyone with public concerns during the event will be expected to call 911 for emergencies or the SMPD non-emergency line at 310-458-8491.