Key facts
- U.S. agencies have seized over 50 drones near World Cup sites since the tournament began.
- Homeland Security reported more than 150 drone incursions into prohibited airspace at eight game locations.
- In Kansas City, eight drones were intercepted on Wednesday during World Cup events.
- The FAA has prohibited drone flights over World Cup matches and fan events.
- Unauthorized drone operators face fines up to $100,000, criminal charges, and confiscation.
U.S. agencies have seized more than 50 drones near FIFA World Cup sites since the tournament began last week, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said Thursday. The Homeland Security Department reported over 150 drone incursions into prohibited airspace at eight game locations, including three dozen incidents in Atlanta.
In Kansas City, a joint federal-city counter-drone team intercepted eight drones on Wednesday during World Cup 2026 events at Kansas City (Arrowhead) Stadium and the FIFA Fan Festival. The Federal Aviation Administration has barred drones from flying over World Cup 2026 matches and related fan events across the United States.
During match days, all aircraft operations, including drones, are prohibited within a three-nautical-mile radius and up to 3,000 feet above ground level around stadiums unless specifically authorized by air traffic controllers. Drones are barred within a one-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above ground level for fan events throughout the country.
The FAA stated that drone operators who enter restricted airspace without approval can face fines of up to $100,000, along with criminal charges and confiscation of the drone. The FBI also has drone mitigation teams it will station around World Cup stadiums.