US seizes over 300 drones at World Cup sites

United States authorities have seized more than 300 unauthorized drones at World Cup sites since the tournament began earlier this month, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). On matchdays, all aircraft operations, including drones, are prohibited within a three-mile radius of stadiums and up to 3,000 feet above them. Similar restrictions cover fan zones.

Security measures and legal consequences

The restrictions were implemented as safety measures to prevent drones from posing a threat to people on the ground. They are also part of broader efforts to protect against potential terrorism. Last year, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to bolster US defenses against drone attacks. FBI teams are stationed around World Cup stadiums to detect and disable unauthorized drones. Operators who breach World Cup no-fly zones can face fines of up to $100,000 (£75,000), seizure of equipment, and criminal charges.

Recent enforcement actions

Last week in Kansas City, Missouri, eight drones and controllers were confiscated by the FBI in a joint operation with other law enforcement agencies for violating temporary flight restrictions at World Cup events at Kansas City Stadium and a FIFA fan zone. Two drone operators were also handed violation notices by the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS).

A spokesperson for the TSA told BBC Sport that "enforcement is swift and proactive" for anyone found flying a drone in restricted zones. They added that authorities "have implemented the most comprehensive airspace security and drone mitigation effort in US history for the FIFA World Cup 2026, resulting in the seizure of more than 300 unauthorized drones to date." The spokesperson emphasized that "unauthorised drone flights in restricted areas are a serious violation of federal law."

Broader context of drone incidents

Before South Korea's second Group A game with co-hosts Mexico last week, the Mexican military reportedly intercepted and brought down an unregistered drone seen flying over South Korea's training base in Guadalajara, Mexico. The South Korean camp reportedly suspected spying. In 2024, Canada's women's team was accused of using a drone to spy on a New Zealand training session before their opening match at the Olympic Games in Paris. Head coach Bev Priestman was dismissed by Canada Soccer, and two coaching staff members were suspended as the 2020 gold medalists were deducted six points.