Over 600 Drones Seized Near Restricted World Cup Airspace

Security authorities in the United States have intensified surveillance measures around FIFA World Cup venues after more than 600 unauthorised drones were seized from restricted airspace near stadiums and fan gathering areas since the tournament began.

The figures were released on Monday by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which said multiple incidents involving drones had been recorded since the World Cup kicked off on 11 June. Authorities said the devices were intercepted as part of a wider effort to prevent potential threats during one of the world’s largest sporting events.

Under aviation security regulations, temporary flight restrictions are imposed around World Cup stadiums on match days. The restricted zone covers an area extending three nautical miles from the venue and up to 3,000 feet above ground level. Unauthorised aircraft, including drones, are prohibited from entering the zone unless special permission has been granted by aviation authorities.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed that drones had been detected and seized in all 11 host cities of the tournament, indicating that no location had been free from such incidents. Officials said the restrictions were introduced to protect players, spectators and nearby communities from possible safety risks.

Miami recorded the highest number of seizures, with around 130 drones confiscated so far. In Dallas, more than 70 drones were intercepted during five matches. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also enforced strict restrictions around stadiums and official fan zones, where drone operations are banned within one nautical mile and up to 1,000 feet above the ground.

The FBI has warned that individuals who operate drones without authorisation in restricted areas could face serious legal consequences. Penalties may include fines of up to $100,000, criminal charges and the confiscation of equipment.

Special FBI teams have been deployed around World Cup venues to strengthen security operations. Using advanced detection technology, these units are monitoring unauthorised drone activity and taking action when necessary.

In one recent case, a 40-year-old Mexican national, Cristobal Torres Alvarez, was charged after allegedly flying a drone in restricted airspace before a match at a Dallas stadium. Authorities said the incident demonstrated the continued challenges posed by unauthorised drone use during major public events.

The United States has taken broader steps in recent years to counter potential drone threats. In 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at strengthening national capabilities against hostile drone activity. Around the same period, the Department of Homeland Security introduced additional counter-drone measures along the US-Mexico border in Texas.

Drone-related security concerns have also emerged at other major sporting events in the country. During an NFL play-off match in Baltimore in 2025, a person was charged after allegedly operating a drone in prohibited airspace and later pleaded guilty in court.

With millions of fans attending matches and gathering in public areas, authorities say maintaining strict control over the skies remains a key part of the overall security plan for the World Cup.