The Federal Aviation Administration has announced it will restrict drone flights over FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and associated fan activities across the United States. The move comes as the Trump administration seeks to respond to security concerns tied to the tournament.
Quick facts
- The FAA will bar drones over FIFA World Cup 2026 matches and related fan events across the United States.
- On match days, all aircraft operations—including drones—are banned within a 3-nautical-mile radius of the stadiums.
- The restriction also applies up to 3,000 feet above ground level around the venues.
- Exceptions are only possible if flights are specifically authorized by air traffic controllers.
On match days, the FAA says the restrictions cover all aircraft activity, not just unmanned systems. That includes drones, with the no-fly area set at 3 nautical miles from each stadium and extending upward to 3,000 feet above ground level.
Flights can proceed only with explicit clearance from air traffic controllers, who would need to specifically authorize any operation that falls within the defined perimeter and altitude band.
