politics
FBI Reports Over 300 Drone Incursions Near World Cup Venues
The FBI intercepted more than 300 unauthorized drones during the first 10 days of the 2026 World Cup. Field offices in Los Angeles, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Newark seized a combined 121 drones near host stadiums and fan-fest sites.
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The FBI intercepted more than 300 unauthorized drones nationwide during the first week and a half of the 2026 World Cup. The agency’s Los Angeles field office confirmed the total to the Washington Examiner on Monday and reported seizing 34 drones near SoFi Stadium.
Before the games started, the Federal Aviation Administration issued temporary flight restrictions over all 11 U.S. host stadiums and 12 fan-fest locations. Violators can face prison time, fines up to $100,000, and confiscation of their aircraft. FBI offices have repeated the FAA warning, citing safety risks to spectators and participants.
The FAA advisory also states that the government may use deadly force against aircraft deemed an imminent threat and can revoke pilot certificates.
The drone activity follows heightened security measures after an alleged plot involving drones at a June UFC event on the White House lawn. The FBI made five arrests in that case, saying the suspects planned to use drones to trigger explosions and force an evacuation.
The World Cup has drawn senior administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
