Heightened security brings long waits before Spain-Argentina World Cup final

Fans heading into the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina experienced long delays at New York New Jersey Stadium as security checks were intensified. BBC Sport reported that some people were understood to have waited around two hours, though kick-off was not expected to be delayed.

The added checks were linked in part to the attendance of United States president Donald Trump, with the United States Secret Service taking charge of security for the match. The TSA was also involved, meaning supporters and media had to pass through airport-style screening before entering the 82,500-seat venue.

Gates opened four hours before the scheduled 15:00 local kick-off, and additional entry points were opened at times to reduce congestion. Once supporters cleared the queues, most were reportedly able to scan tickets and enter without major problems.

For organisers, the scene underlined the challenge of staging a global final under unusually tight security. The key question now is whether earlier communication, more predictable gate operations, or different crowd-flow planning could have reduced the pressure on fans arriving for the biggest match of the tournament.