TSA says more than 300 drones have been seized near World Cup sites
SC GOP Rep. Sheri Biggs talks World Cup Security
Congresswoman Sheri Biggs (R-SC) joins LiveNOW from FOX's Josh Breslow as she emphasizes the need for advanced counter-drone defenses and adequate resource allocation to secure the FIFA World Cup. Drawing on her background as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard, she has raised warnings about potential drone terror threats and advocated for robust technological and personnel deployments to protect major U.S. sporting events.
WASHINGTON - The Transportation Security Administration says that hundreds of "unauthorized" drones have been seized at FIFA World Cup sites since the tournament began earlier this month.
TSA says hundreds of drones seized at World Cup sites
What they're saying:
In a statement shared with FOX Local, a TSA spokesperson said that the federal government, led by the White House Task Force, and in partnership with the FBI, DHS, TSA, FAA, along with state and local law enforcement, implemented a comprehensive airspace security and drone mitigation effort for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The spokesperson said the effort resulted in "the seizure of more than 300 unauthorized drones to date."
The spokesperson continued, "Unauthorized drone flights in restricted areas are a serious violation of federal law. Operators can face fines up to $100,000, drone seizure, and federal criminal charges. Enforcement is swift and proactive."
All FIFA World Cup stadiums are ‘no drone zones’
Dig deeper:
As outlined on the Federal Aviation Administration's website, all FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums are "no drone zones."
A "No Drone Zone" means that unauthorized drone flights are strictly prohibited in the designated airspace and surrounding grounds.
During major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, the FAA implements Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) to limit air travel and secure the airspace.
Fans arrive ahead of a World Cup tournament.(Credit: ETIENNE LAURENT / AFP via Getty Images)
The FAA said taking off, landing, or flying a drone within these restricted areas is a violation of federal and local regulations.
RELATED: FBI seizes 39 drones for violating World Cup flight restrictions over Dallas Stadium, Fair Park
If a person flies a drone without authorization, they could face civil penalties up to $75,000 per violation or criminal fines up to $100,000, drone confiscation or criminal prosecution.
Additionally, drone operators at certain World Cup fan-event locations will also face restrictions. Drones are "prohibited within a 1-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above ground level" at several locations, including the L.A. Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles and Rockefeller Center in New York City.
8 drones intercepted during FIFA World Cup events in Kansas City
The backstory:
On June 18, the TSA reported that eight drones were intercepted during FIFA World Cup events at Kansas City Stadium and FIFA Fan Festival for violations of temporary flight restrictions (TFRs).
All eight drones and controllers were seized by the FBI. Two drone operators were issued misdemeanor violation notices by FAMS. The counter-drone operation also resulted in the apprehension of a female wanted on six outstanding arrest warrants.
RELATED: Cristiano Ronaldo becomes 1st player to score in 6 World Cups after goal against Uzbekistan
"Not only is flying drones in TFR zones illegal, it’s dangerous. My office is committed to keeping our community and visitors safe by keeping our skies drone free," said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price. ""If you see a drone breaking the rules, report it. If you are flying an illegal drone, think twice because violators will be held accountable by the Department of Justice."
If someone spots unsafe drone activity, they can report it immediately by calling 9-1-1 or 1-800-CALL-FBI.
How to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026
What's next:
Outside of watching FOX on live broadcast TV, there are several options audiences can choose from to enjoy the soccer matches.
One free option is through FIFA+ and select YouTube streams.
Other paid options include:
- FOX One
- FOX Sports 1
- Fubo
- YouTube TV
- FOX Sports app
- Hulu+ LiveTV
- Peacock (Spanish-language)
How to watch Team USA's FIFA World Cup 2026 matches
- Thursday, June 25, 2026: USA vs Türkiye Live Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California (7 p.m. PT/ 10 p.m. ET)
FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is an expanded 48-team tournament featuring 104 matches taking place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four with each team playing its group stage opponents for a total of three first-round games per side.
When is the FIFA World Cup 2026 final?
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will take place July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the culmination of a month-long tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Source: The information for this story was provided by TSA. This story was reported from Los Angeles.