The FBI and Atlanta Police Department (APD) have launched a significant security operation targeting unauthorized drones flying near World Cup venues, particularly ahead of the semifinals match between England and Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday, July 14th, 2026.

Both agencies are actively using drones to monitor potential threats both on the ground and in the air. The FBI is enforcing the Federal Aviation Administration's Temporary Flight Restrictions around the stadium to maintain a secure airspace.

Since the World Cup began, the FBI has confiscated over 600 drones nationwide, with Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Atlanta Field Office, Marlo Graham, reporting that 86 of those were seized in Atlanta alone. Graham explained that the FBI employs a "mechanism" enabling agents to detect unauthorized drones in restricted airspace and has successfully landed such drones safely.

Kindu Franklin noted that most individuals caught flying drones near World Cup venues are hobbyists without malicious intent, often purchasing drones recently to capture footage for social media. However, authorities remain vigilant, recognizing the potential for drones to be weaponized and disrupt the event.

The APD drone unit has conducted more than 1,400 flights and logged over 550 flight hours since early June. Anais Paredes, an APD drone pilot, emphasized their local knowledge, stating, "We live here, so we know what to expect."

Officials highlighted the importance of preventing drone-related incidents that could impact the game, such as a hobbyist losing control of a drone during critical moments.

Sources