Working with mission partners, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency provided geospatial intelligence data and products for the 2010 FIFA World Cup that were instrumental in security planning for the games. While the soccer matches occurred over a two-week period in late June and early July 2010, NGA’s preparation took place over the course of the preceding year to ensure the GEOINT products used would be the best possible to help with security at the tournament’s many events and venues.

The 2010 World Cup took place in nine cities and ten stadiums throughout South Africa, had 32 international teams participating and included numerous heads of state and foreign dignitaries attending. There were also thousands of media and corporate sponsor representatives and nearly 400,000 visitors who entered the country specifically for the games.

By completion of the final match, NGA had produced more than 330 GEOINT products. The agency’s successful World Cup participation strengthened partnerships and demonstrated the importance of collaboration to the safe and successful conclusion of large international special events.