US FBI Enforces Drone Ban for 2026 FIFA World Cup Venues

The FBI announced it will monitor unauthorized drone flights at stadiums and fan zones for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. The FAA has issued temporary flight restrictions covering all venues, starting now through July 19, 2026, including the Houston fan festival. The agency warned that “unauthorized drone operators will have committed a federal crime.”

Violators can face federal criminal charges, administrative fines up to $75,000 and criminal penalties up to $100,000 per violation, and possible immediate arrest. The FBI has authority to seize drones using specialized equipment, and the FAA’s restrictions mean “no drones may be flown over World Cup event areas.”