U.S. law enforcement and security agencies are implementing a stringent zero-tolerance policy for drones at World Cup stadiums and associated fan events, recognizing them as a significant security threat. The policy will be in effect for all 78 matches scheduled to take place in 11 U.S. cities.
Authorities have enhanced counter-drone measures, drawing on experience from events like the Super Bowl. Congress has recently granted state and local law enforcement expanded authority to disable or, if necessary, shoot down drones. While electronic disabling and safe landing are the preferred methods, federal agencies already possessed similar capabilities. The Federal Aviation Administration will establish temporary flight restrictions over and around stadiums, a measure also employed for NFL and Major League Baseball games. Violators face potential fines of up to $100,000, drone confiscation, and criminal charges for flying within a three-mile radius of game venues.
The FBI has significantly invested in counter-drone technology over the past seven years, developing capabilities to rapidly identify and take control of drones. The bureau has also provided counter-drone technology training to law enforcement in all World Cup host cities. While military systems like lasers exist to counter drones, the FBI does not plan to use them during the World Cup due to the risks associated with falling debris over populated areas. Instead, the focus is on systems that can safely disable drones or jam their signals. The government has allocated $250 million to assist states in preparing for security measures at World Cup matches and other major public events.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has acknowledged that while federal officers have successfully intercepted drones at events like a Formula 1 race in Miami and the Masters golf tournament, the rapidly evolving drone technology presents an ongoing challenge. The FBI plans to treat every drone within restricted airspace as a potential threat, aggressively locating operators and investigating to determine the nature of the situation and ensure accountability.
Security experts and officials emphasize the potential danger of drones in the wrong hands, noting that adversaries could employ them for attacks on American soil. Concerns include preprogrammed drones carrying explosives or remotely controlled systems, as well as coordinated attacks using drone swarms, which have proven difficult to counter even for military forces. Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to prepare for and mitigate these threats, with a message to drone operators to refrain from flying near event venues.
The security preparations for the World Cup are seen as a precursor to similar measures for upcoming events such as the America 250th birthday celebrations, the World Series, the Super Bowl, and the 2028 Olympics. The lessons learned and technologies deployed will also assist state and local law enforcement in securing community-level events, including high school and college games.