Violators face fines up to $100,000, equipment seizure, and federal chargesDrone flights have been prohibited over US stadiums hosting FIFA World Cup matches and fan events, authorities announced Thursday, ahead of the tournament’s June 11 kickoff.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said no-fly zones will cover a three-nautical-mile (5.6km) radius around match-day stadiums, extending up to 3,000 feet (900 metres) above ground.
Fan event zones carry a smaller but still firm restriction — one nautical mile radius and up to 1,000 feet altitude. “As fans from around the world gather at stadiums and fan events across the country for the FIFA World Cup, the FAA is using every available tool to protect the airspace, including stronger drone-enforcement efforts,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.
Penalties for violations are steep — fines of up to $100,000, confiscation of equipment, and potential federal criminal prosecution.FBI steps in to guarantee clear skiesThe Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed its involvement in enforcement.
Aaron Hope of the FBI’s Atlanta field office told a press conference the agency’s primary goal was simple: “The message gets out that it is a no-drone zone.”Hope added that the FBI has the technology to detect drones, identify them, and trace operators to their location — and will deploy it if necessary.
The FAA also announced DETER, a new rapid-detection enforcement initiative that will support surveillance efforts throughout the tournament.The 2026 FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, running from June 11 to the July 19 final.
