New Jersey is preparing to take center stage on the world scene this year, with matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be played at MetLife Stadium. Add to that the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations and other large-scale public events, and security experts say planning is already well underway to keep millions of visitors, fans, and residents safe.

Major international events bring excitement, and complex security challenges. From coordinating local law enforcement to monitoring global threats, much of this work happens behind the scenes months, sometimes years, before the first whistle blows.

Joining us now is Greg Sanfilippo, Vice President of Doyle Security Services. He’s a former U.S. Marine and a former NYPD officer specializing in intelligence and counterterrorism, with decades of experience protecting high-profile events.