WASHINGTON — The FBI has intensified its counter-drone operations to protect venues and events for the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, deploying specialized teams and enforcing temporary flight restrictions across host cities, officials said.
The measures come as the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has drawn global attention with matches underway in multiple U.S. cities. The FBI, working with federal, state and local partners, is focusing on mitigating risks from unauthorized drones near stadiums, fan festivals and related sites.
“We will be deploying drone mitigation and interception teams with the capabilities to detect, track, and assess unauthorized drone activity that threatens aviation safety or the public around venues at major events,” Patrick Grandy, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, said in a recent statement.
Federal authorities have established temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) around key locations, including stadiums and fan zones. The FBI is authorized to use counter-unmanned aircraft systems (counter-UAS) capabilities to detect and mitigate threats while preserving evidence for potential prosecution, according to agency announcements.
In preparation, the FBI trained about 60 officers from state and local jurisdictions at its facility in Huntsville, Alabama, equipping them with skills to counter drone incursions. The Department of Homeland Security also provided more than $250 million in grants to host areas for anti-drone technology and related security enhancements.
Officials have emphasized enforcement actions, with reports of drones seized in restricted zones near some events. The FBI has described drones as a significant security concern due to their potential to disrupt operations or pose physical hazards, though it has stated there are no credible specific threats identified at this time.
The intensified efforts build on broader preparations for the World Cup, described by security planners as one of the largest events the U.S. has hosted. Counter-drone measures include layered protection involving detection, tracking and, where necessary, mitigation in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration and local law enforcement.
FBI field offices in host cities, such as Dallas, Boston and Los Angeles, have issued public warnings to drone operators, urging compliance with restrictions to avoid criminal and civil penalties. Similar messaging has been promoted through public service announcements.
The initiative reflects growing concerns over drone use at large-scale public events, informed by experiences from other international gatherings. Implementation involves interagency coordination, with the FBI providing technical support at select venues.
As the tournament continues, authorities said monitoring and enforcement of airspace restrictions remain active before, during and after matches. Further details on specific incidents or additional measures were not immediately available.
