US agencies have confiscated over 50 drones near FIFA World Cup 2026 sites since the tournament began last week, officials said [1, 2, 3]. There have been more than 150 drone incursions into restricted airspace at eight game locations, including 36 incidents in Atlanta, according to Markwayne Mullin, who confirmed the figures publicly [1, 2, 3].
The FAA has prohibited drone flights over all World Cup match venues and related fan events across the US for the duration of the tournament [1, 2, 3]. During match days, no aircraft including drones are allowed within a three-nautical-mile radius and up to 3,000 feet above ground level around stadiums unless authorized [1, 2]. For fan events, the drone ban extends to a one-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet in altitude nationwide [1, 2].
Operators who violate these restrictions face fines up to $100,000, criminal charges, and drone confiscation, law enforcement officials warned [1, 2]. FBI drone mitigation teams have been deployed around World Cup stadiums to detect and intercept unauthorized drones [1, 2, 3].
On June 17, a joint federal-city counter-drone team intercepted eight drones near Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium and FIFA Fan Festival during World Cup events [1, 2, 3]. This was among the most recent enforcement actions reported.
Authorities have acted on prior drone violations in sporting events. In January 2025, a man pleaded guilty after flying a drone over an NFL AFC playoff game in Baltimore, violating defense airspace [1, 2]. In April 2024, a Massachusetts man was charged with unlawful drone flight near the Boston Marathon finish line; law enforcement seized the drone mid-air [1, 2].
The ongoing drone interceptions continue amid strict FAA regulations aimed at protecting airspace around World Cup venues. The tournament is currently underway across multiple US cities, with federal and local agencies maintaining tight airspace security.
Officials remain vigilant as the World Cup progresses through its schedule, continuing to monitor and seize unauthorized drones near game and fan event locations.
