FBI seizes drones violating temporary flight restrictions at U.S. World Cup venues

Federal officials seized a series of unauthorized drones near stadiums hosting FIFA World Cup matches in the United States. In Atlanta, the FBI confiscated 15 drones after the FAA expanded the no‑fly zone around the downtown stadium and Centennial Olympic Park, warning pilots of fines up to $100,000 and possible felony charges.

In California, agents seized additional drones and cited pilots near SoFi Stadium in Inglewood after the FAA imposed a 3‑nautical‑mile, 3,000‑foot restriction for the match in which the United States defeated Paraguay 4‑1. The FBI’s Los Angeles office released images of the seized drones and a cited pilot, reiterating that violations of temporary flight restrictions can result in seizure, criminal prosecution, and hefty fines. The FAA has applied similar restrictions at other World Cup venues and fan‑event sites across the country.