United States authorities have confiscated more than 300 unauthorised drones around World Cup venues since the tournament began earlier this month.
Temporary flight restrictions are in force on matchdays, banning all aircraft activity, including drones, within three miles of stadiums and up to 3,000 feet above them. Fan zones are covered by similar rules.
The measures are designed to protect spectators and prevent drones from posing risks to people on the ground. They also form part of a broader US security push against potential drone-related attacks, after President Donald Trump signed an executive order last year aimed at strengthening the country’s defences.
FBI teams have been deployed around World Cup stadiums to identify and disable drones flying illegally. Operators who ignore the restrictions can face fines of up to $100,000, seizure of equipment and possible criminal charges.
In Kansas City, Missouri, last week, the FBI and partner agencies confiscated eight drones and controllers at Kansas City Stadium and a FIFA fan zone after they breached temporary flight restrictions. Two operators also received violation notices from the Federal Air Marshal Service.
A Transportation Security Administration spokesperson said enforcement has been “swift and proactive,” adding that authorities have put in place the most extensive airspace security and drone mitigation operation in US history for the 2026 World Cup.
Drone security has also become a concern outside the United States. Before South Korea’s second Group A match against Mexico, Mexican military officials reportedly intercepted an unregistered drone flying over South Korea’s training base in Guadalajara, with the Korean camp said to have suspected possible spying.
The issue follows a major controversy at the 2024 Paris Olympics, when Canada’s women’s football team were accused of using a drone to monitor a New Zealand training session. Canada Soccer later dismissed head coach Bev Priestman, suspended two staff members, and the team were deducted six points.