United States authorities have formally declared all FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums and surrounding event spaces as strict No Drone Zones, putting fans and operators on notice ahead of the tournament.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) unveiled a comprehensive safety plan establishing temporary flight restrictions that bar all unauthorised drones from operating within three nautical miles of match venues and up to 1,000 feet in altitude near fan events.

What the restrictions cover

Beyond match stadiums, the rules extend to official fan events hosted across World Cup cities. Around those locations, all aircraft operations are prohibited within a one-nautical-mile radius and up to 1,000 feet above ground level.

FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford made clear the agency's intent.