The TSA says federal partners have seized more than 300 unauthorized drones at FIFA World Cup 2026 venues and fan-event sites as part of a coordinated airspace security operation led by a White House task force with the FBI, DHS and FAA. All World Cup stadiums are designated "No Drone Zones," and the FAA has issued Temporary Flight Restrictions around stadiums and some fan-event locations. Violators face steep civil and criminal penalties, potential seizure of aircraft, and possible prosecution. A June 18 operation in Kansas City led to eight drones and controllers being seized and additional enforcement actions.
TSA: Over 300 Unauthorized Drones Seized at FIFA World Cup Sites as Airspace Enforcement Intensifies
Fans arrive ahead of a World Cup tournament.(Credit: ETIENNE LAURENT / AFP via Getty Images)
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says federal partners have seized more than 300 unauthorized drones at venues and fan-event locations tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026 as part of a coordinated airspace security effort.
Coordinated Federal Response
In a statement, the TSA said a White House task force — working with the FBI, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), state and local law enforcement and other federal agencies — established a broad drone mitigation and airspace security operation for the tournament. The effort has led to the seizure of "more than 300 unauthorized drones to date," and authorities say enforcement remains active and ongoing.
Recent Enforcement: Kansas City
On June 18, officials intercepted eight drones at Kansas City Stadium and a FIFA Fan Festival for violating Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs). The FBI seized the eight aircraft and their controllers; two operators were issued misdemeanor violation notices by the FAA’s Flight Standards (FAMS) office, and the operation also resulted in the arrest of a woman wanted on multiple outstanding warrants.
"Not only is flying drones in TFR zones illegal, it’s dangerous. My office is committed to keeping our community and visitors safe by keeping our skies drone free," said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price. "If you see a drone breaking the rules, report it. If you are flying an illegal drone, think twice because violators will be held accountable by the Department of Justice."
No Drone Zones, TFRs and Penalties
All FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums are designated as "No Drone Zones" and the FAA has issued Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) around stadiums and some fan-event sites. Operating a drone inside these restricted areas — including taking off, landing or flying — is a violation of federal and local rules.
Penalties can be severe: civil fines can reach up to $75,000 per violation, criminal fines can be as high as $100,000, and drones may be confiscated. Operators may also face federal criminal charges and prosecution.
Fan-Event Restrictions
Certain fan-event locations have additional drone restrictions. For example, drones are prohibited within a 1-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above ground level at selected sites such as the L.A. Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles and Rockefeller Center in New York City. Attendees and recreational pilots should check FAA TFR notices and local signage before operating any unmanned aircraft.
What To Do If You See Unsafe Drone Activity
Members of the public who observe unsafe or unauthorized drone activity should report it immediately by calling 9-1-1 or 1-800-CALL-FBI. Authorities encourage prompt reporting to help protect public safety and critical event operations.
Watching The Matches
For fans planning to watch the World Cup, free streaming is available via FIFA+ and select YouTube streams. Paid options include FOX One, FOX Sports 1, Fubo, YouTube TV, the FOX Sports app, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock (Spanish-language coverage).
About The Tournament
The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19 across venues in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The expanded 48-team tournament features 104 matches, with the final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Source: Information provided by the Transportation Security Administration.
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