US authorities have announced strict airspace restrictions ahead of the FIFA World Cup, warning that drones and other unauthorized aircraft will not be allowed near stadiums or official fan zones during the tournament.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Federal Aviation Administration, all aircraft — including drones — will be barred from operating within a three-nautical-mile radius of match venues and up to 3,000 feet above ground level on game days, except for flights granted special authorization.
The restrictions will also apply to fan festivals and other World Cup-related gatherings organized by host cities. Around those locations, flights will be prohibited within a one-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above the ground.
“As fans from around the world gather at stadiums and fan events across the country for the FIFA World Cup, the FAA is using every available tool to protect the airspace, including stronger drone-enforcement efforts,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.
Authorities warned that anyone caught violating the restrictions could face penalties of up to $100,000, seizure of equipment, and possible federal criminal prosecution.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation also confirmed its involvement in monitoring the restricted airspace during the competition.
“Our primary focus is that the message gets out that it is a no-drone zone,” Aaron Hope of the FBI’s Atlanta office told a press conference in the southern city.
“Should there be the need for us to intercept a drone we have the technology for that. We do have the technology to identify drones and then locate operators, it is something we will be doing if we need to.”
The FAA added that it will deploy DETER, a newly introduced enforcement system designed for the rapid detection of drone violations, to strengthen monitoring during the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, is scheduled to begin on June 11 and conclude with the final on July 19.