U.S. authorities seize 700+ drones in FIFA World Cup security operation

The White House reported that, while no weaponized drones were found, U.S. security agencies intercepted and seized more than 700 unmanned aircraft during the FIFA World Cup. Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Counterterrorism Sebastian Gorka said the Department of Homeland Security is preparing an after‑action report on the nation‑wide counter‑drone effort.

The FBI disclosed that 59 drones were seized in Los Angeles alone, where operators had flown them illegally in restricted airspace around SoFi Stadium, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and other fan zones. FBI Assistant Director Patrick Grandy emphasized a zero‑tolerance policy and noted the broader seizure effort across the country, linking the operation to upcoming major events such as the Super Bowl and the 2028 Summer Olympics.