Photo: Kurtis Toliver / Shutterstock.com The United States Department of Transportation has warned drone operators to stay away from FIFA World Cup venues after authorities detected hundreds of unauthorized drone flights near matches.
In a social media post, the department said the Federal Aviation Administration and Federal Bureau of Investigation have been actively enforcing temporary flight restrictions around World Cup stadiums.
VIDEO: U.S. Department of Transportation:
Want to donate your expensive drone to the federal government? Because flying it near a @FIFAWorldCup game is EXACTLY how you do it‼️@FAAnews prohibits them, and the @FBI is actively playing DEFENSE
— U.S. Department of Transportation (@USDOT) June 17, 2026
So far:
? 306 Drones Detected
? 146 Drones Confiscated
? 63 Operators… pic.twitter.com/UAyPO6fX0C
According to the figures released by the agency:
-306 drones have been detected near World Cup events
-146 drones have been confiscated
-63 drone operators have been cited
The Department of Transportation issued a blunt warning to drone owners: "Want to donate your expensive drone to the federal government? Because flying it near a FIFA World Cup game is EXACTLY how you do it."
Photo: ShutetrstockOfficials reminded the public that drones are prohibited in restricted airspace around match venues and that operators who violate the rules risk losing their equipment and facing enforcement action.
The warning comes as crowds continue to flock to stadiums across the United States during the FIFA World Cup, prompting heightened security measures both on the ground and in the air.
Photo: Photo: Joe Tabacca / Shutterstock.comAuthorities are urging fans to leave drones at home and check FAA restrictions before flying anywhere near major sporting events.
As a reminder, all 16 venues hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Canada and Mexico will be protected by strict "No Drone Zone" rules during matches and related events.
The FAA has imposed Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) around stadiums, banning unauthorized drone operations in the surrounding airspace. The measures will apply to all World Cup host venues, including stadiums in New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Toronto, Vancouver, Mexico City and other host cities.
Authorities are warning that anyone caught flying a drone in restricted areas could face fines of up to $75,000, criminal penalties reaching $100,000, arrest, and confiscation of their equipment.
The restrictions apply to both recreational and licensed drone operators, with officials urging pilots to check airspace restrictions before flying and avoid bringing drones to World Cup events altogether.