FAA designates World Cup games, events as ‘no drone zones’

WASHINGTON (TNND) — Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the Federal Aviation Administration has designated FIFA World Cup games and events as “no drone zones.”

“DO NOT BE THAT GUY,” Duffy posted on X on Thursday.

“If your drone blocks a World Cup goal, you aren’t just ruining our chances — you’re facing up to $100,000 in fines and federal criminal charges. @FAAnews has established ‘No Drone Zones’ for FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums, fan events, and base camps. BOTTOM LINE: Keep your drone on the bench and GOOOO TEAM USA.”

Duffy’s post included an edited video of a drone blocking a soccer ball from making it into the goal.

A narrator in the video says that it is the World Cup final, as “the entire tournament comes down to this single penalty kick. Christian Pulisic, with the weight of a nation on his shoulders, one kick for football immortality. He shoots — oh, no! A drone just blocked the game-winning goal!”

Text superimposed on the video reads, “don’t ruin America’s chances,” and “don’t drone around.”

The World Cup is set to begin on June 11 in cities across North America. The championship match is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, just outside New York City.