JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (WGEM) - Missouri is preparing to host one of the biggest sporting events in the world next year: the FIFA World Cup in Kansas City. As the fans prepare, so do first responders.

This week, first responders from all across Missouri are gathered for the State Emergency Management Agency’s annual training conference. One hot topic is preparing to welcome international sports fans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

SEMA and FIFA officials are preparing first responders to handle anticipated situations like language barriers, travelers unaccustomed to the heat, and passionate fans who may be drunk, ready to fight or even try to bring fireworks into the stadium.

“There’s people in other countries selling personal items, cars, houses, just so they have enough money to come to Nor

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