The FBI says several drone operators were cited and had their aircraft confiscated after violating temporary flight restrictions during World Cup-related events in the Los Angeles area.
In a social media post Saturday, the FBI’s Los Angeles field office said its Counter Drone Enforcement Team had been actively monitoring airspace around Friday night’s FIFA World Cup match and related activities near SoFi Stadium.
“The FBI’s Counter Drone Enforcement Team has been busy around last night’s #WorldCup game and related events ensuring drone pilots aren’t violating FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions,” the agency said. “But some were, and as promised, they were cited and had their drones seized.”
Photos shared by the FBI showed several confiscated drones as well as a federal task force member issuing a citation to a drone pilot near SoFi Stadium.
The enforcement action comes just days after federal officials warned fans to leave drones at home during World Cup matches.
The Federal Aviation Administration has designated World Cup stadiums as strict “No Drone Zones” on match days. Temporary flight restrictions prohibit drone operations within a three-nautical-mile radius of stadiums and up to 3,000 feet above the venues unless specifically authorized by air traffic control.
Federal officials have said they are using advanced technology to detect unauthorized drones and identify their operators.
Drone pilots who violate the restrictions can face fines of up to $100,000, confiscation of their aircraft, federal criminal charges and up to one year in prison, according to the FAA.
The FBI said Assistant Director in Charge Patrick Grandy also briefed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Mullin and other officials about the bureau’s security operations surrounding FIFA events, including counter-drone measures designed to protect fans and visitors.
Los Angeles is one of several host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with matches being played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
Authorities continue to urge drone operators to check airspace restrictions before flying and to avoid restricted areas around World Cup venues.