US Homeland Security seizes over 500 drones during World Cup
Authorities have implemented strict no-fly zones around stadiums, resulting in the seizure of hundreds of unauthorized drones.
The United States Department of Homeland Security has seized more than 500 drones for violating strict airspace restrictions implemented specifically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These measures include no-fly zones extending up to 4.8 km around match venues and 1.8 km around official Fan Fests, with altitude limits to ensure tournament safety.
This initiative is part of an extensive security operation costing approximately $250 million. US authorities treat the operation of drones in restricted areas as a serious federal violation, with potential fines reaching up to $100,000 for offenders.
Beyond security logistics, the tournament has faced significant scrutiny regarding strict visa requirements. Several national delegations, journalists, and staff have been denied entry, with the Iranian national team notably forced to relocate their training base to Mexico. Human Rights Watch has criticized the organizing committee and US authorities for these barriers, arguing they undermine the inclusive nature of the event.
Despite these challenges, FIFA has reported record-breaking attendance figures for the group stage. During the first 17 days, over 4.6 million spectators attended matches, with stadium occupancy rates averaging 99.7%, marking a significant success for the tournament's commercial and public interest metrics.