Drone bans and arrests imposed for 2026 World Cup venues in US, Canada

Federal investigators in the United States arrested Lorenzo Rojas Martinez, a 37‑year‑old Mexican national with prior felony convictions, for operating an unauthorized drone in a Temporary Flight Restriction zone over the 2026 FIFA World Cup fan festival in downtown Atlanta. He faces charges for illegal drone operation and illegal re‑entry into the U.S., part of a broader Operation Take Back America that has already confiscated 21 drones.

In Canada, Transport Canada introduced a temporary restriction on unauthorized drone flights below 2,500 feet around the World Cup stadiums and training sites in Toronto and Vancouver from June 12 through July 7, 2026. The bans cover areas such as BMO Field, Exhibition Place, Downsview Park, BC Place, the Pacific National Exhibition grounds and university facilities, aiming to protect crowded airspace and event security after past incidents of drone‑based spying.