WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is expanding its public awareness efforts ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, warning visitors and residents about the dangers of fentanyl and other synthetic drugs as millions of people are expected to travel to host cities across the United States.
Federal officials said the agency’s “One Pill Can Kill” campaign will be prominently featured in World Cup host cities as part of an effort to educate fans, teams and local communities about the risks posed by counterfeit pills and the nation’s ongoing synthetic opioid crisis.
According to the DEA, fentanyl remains involved in approximately 200 deaths each day in the United States and continues to be the leading cause of death among Americans ages 18 to 44.
The agency said fentanyl is frequently mixed with illicit substances such as methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin or pressed into counterfeit pills designed to resemble prescription medications, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, Adderall and Xanax.
Officials warned that fentanyl is nearly impossible to detect by sight, smell or taste and that as little as 2 milligrams can be fatal.
The DEA also cited growing concerns about fentanyl being combined with other synthetic substances, including xylazine, nitazenes, cychlorphine and medetomidine, creating increasingly dangerous and unpredictable drug mixtures.
As part of its public safety messaging, the DEA is advising visitors and residents to only take medications prescribed by a licensed medical professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.
The agency is also encouraging people to assume illicit drugs may contain fentanyl or other dangerous substances, carry naloxone when appropriate, seek training on how to administer it and call 911 immediately in any suspected overdose or drug poisoning emergency.
“Your safety is our goal,” the DEA said in announcing the expanded campaign. “Throughout FIFA World Cup 2026™ host cities, fans will see DEA’s One Pill Can Kill Campaign, which aims to draw awareness about the dangerous, deadly, and deceptive illicit drug supply.”
The campaign also encourages the public to stay informed about emerging drug threats and share information about the dangers of fentanyl and counterfeit pills.
The DEA said its One Pill Can Kill campaign and Fentanyl Free America initiative are intended to raise awareness and prevent drug-related deaths through education and community outreach.
Officials emphasized that public awareness remains a critical component of the nation’s response to the fentanyl crisis.
“Public awareness and prevention are critical to saving lives – one pill, one time can kill,” the agency said.
