The FBI’s Dallas field office is warning drone operators to stay away from FIFA World Cup 2026 venues in North Texas, as temporary flight restrictions will be enforced around stadiums, fan festivals, and other official event locations throughout the tournament.
Officials said flying a drone inside restricted airspace is a federal offense that can result in penalties including fines of up to $100,000, imprisonment, and the seizure of the aircraft. Temporary flight restrictions are special airspace limitations put in place for a specific period and location. These restrictions can define where aircraft, including drones and other unmanned aircraft systems, are allowed to operate and under what conditions.
AT&T Stadium will host nine FIFA World Cup 2026 matches between June 14 and July 14. Authorities said unauthorized drone activity during this period could create safety risks for aircraft, spectators, players, and critical infrastructure such as power lines and communication networks. Similar restrictions are also expected around Fan Fest activities taking place at Dallas Fair Park.
The FBI said it has legal authority to use counter-drone technologies to address unauthorized drone operations in restricted areas while preserving evidence for possible criminal investigations. Working alongside the Federal Aviation Administration, the agency will use approved systems to detect, track, and evaluate drone activity that may pose risks to aviation safety, public safety, or critical infrastructure. Counter-drone protection teams will also be deployed at selected FIFA World Cup venues to assist local and state law enforcement agencies.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock said the agency will use all available investigative and intelligence resources to help ensure the safety of FIFA World Cup 2026 events. He added that authorities will identify drone operators who violate temporary flight restrictions, confiscate their drones, and pursue prosecution whenever appropriate.
Drone operators are encouraged to check for active airspace restrictions before every flight through an FAA-approved B4UFLY service provider. These free tools provide real-time information about temporary flight restrictions, restricted airspace zones, and other flight advisories based on a user’s location.
Media organizations, commercial drone operators, and public safety agencies that need to conduct authorized flights within restricted airspace during the tournament must obtain FAA approval ahead of time. Authorities noted that the authorization process can take time and operators should apply well before tournament activities begin.
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The FBI also urged the public to report unsafe or suspicious drone activity by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI, stressing that cooperation from the public can help keep FIFA World Cup 2026 events safe and secure.
