Women's World Cup security stepped up after Auckland shooting

The attack took place in the city's tourist area. The Norwegian team's hotel was located a short distance from the shooting. Norway's captain, Maren Mjelde, said his teammates were awakened by a helicopter hovering outside the hotel.

Security at the 2023 Women's World Cup has been increased following the shooting incident in Auckland (image 1). — New Zealand police. Photo: AP

“We always feel safe,” Mjelde said in a statement. “FIFA has a good security system at the hotel and we have our own security staff on the team. Everyone seems calm and we are preparing as usual for tonight’s match.”

Officials at Eden Park, where the match is scheduled to take place after the tournament's opening ceremony, have encouraged ticket holders to get to the stadium early.

"There will be increased security measures in the area and throughout the stands," Eden Park said, adding that additional traffic management measures have also been implemented.

The shooting occurred early Thursday morning, just 12 hours before the match was scheduled to begin. New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said the gunman was armed with a handgun. He added that police arrived one minute after the initial emergency call and stormed the area to save lives.

Acting Auckland Police Commissioner Sunny Patel said the gunman was found dead in the elevator. In addition to the three fatalities (including the gunman), at least six others were injured, according to officials.

“New Zealand football is shocked by the events in Auckland this morning,” the Football Association of New Zealand said in a statement. “We can confirm that all team and staff are safe.”

Although Hipkins said he was "reconsidering" attending the opening game, he insisted the tournament would proceed as planned.

“Clearly, with the FIFA World Cup opening tonight, there’s a lot of attention on Auckland,” Mr. Hipkins said. “ The government spoke with FIFA this morning and the tournament will go ahead as planned. I want to reiterate that there is no broader national security threat. This appears to be the act of an individual.”

However, a festival in Auckland to celebrate the opening ceremony was cancelled. The 2023 Women's World Cup will last a month with 32 teams, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia. The final will take place on August 20th.

Trung Kien (according to AP)

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