World Cup matches in the U.S. are declared no-drone zones

Unmanned aircraft are increasingly used as weapons around the world

- By RICHARD WINTON

JASON ARMOND Los Angeles Times EIGHT World Cup matches will be held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, with the first slated for June 12.

In the run-up to the opening World Cup match in Los Angeles next week, authorities on Monday announced a series of security measures — including a no-drone zone at all venues nationwide, with officials saying they will take down any unauthorized flying objects.

Federal officials have been scrambling to get countermeasures in place as drones increasingly are being used as weapons of war and terror. Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium will host eight matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026, ending with a quarterfinal match July 10. Both the U.S. national team and the team from Iran, whose countries remain at war, will be playing at the venue.

Patrick Grandy, an FBI assistant director who over sees the Los Angeles office, said the agency will work with the Federal Aviation Administration to enforce temporary flight restrictions over the stadium.

“We will be deploying drone mitigation and interception teams with capabilities to detect, track, and assess unauthorized drone activity that threatens aviation safety or the public around venues at major events,” Grandy said. ”Drone operators who enter restricted airspace without authorization may face fines up to $100,000.”