FAA Issues Drone TFRs for World Cup Base Camps

UAV-only restrictions are in effect around 12 U.S. host cities until July 21.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, June 02, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Security personnel at 2026 FIFA World Cup venues will be capable of taking command of rogue drones. [Credit: iStock]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA has implemented temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) specifically for drones in 12 U.S. cities hosting FIFA World Cup matches.
These drone-only TFRs cover a 1-nautical-mile radius up to 400 feet around FIFA team base camps, including designated hotels and practice facilities.
Effective from June 1 to July 21, the restrictions are a security measure against potential threats from unauthorized drones, with violations leading to federal criminal charges and fines up to $100,000.
Exemptions are made for operations supporting national defense, homeland security, law enforcement, firefighting, search-and-rescue, and approved commercial operators who submit requests at least 72 hours in advance.

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If you are planning to fly into one of the 12 U.S. municipalities hosting FIFA World Cup soccer matches this summer, check those NOTAMs carefully—especially if you fly a drone.

On Friday, May 29, the FAA issued drone-only temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) for “FIFA [team] base camps, including designated hotels and practice facilities. The restrictions cover a 1-nautical-mile radius up to 400 feet above ground level around each location.”