How the US Is Protecting the 2026 World Cup From Drone Threats

The United States is preparing for an unprecedented level of security at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with federal authorities committing major funding to defend stadiums and surrounding areas against drone threats.

The Department of Homeland Security has announced a $115 million investment in counter-drone systems designed to protect World Cup venues and large-scale national events, including celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary.

The tournament is expected to draw more than one million international visitors, while billions more will watch matches around the world, making it one of the largest security operations the country has ever undertaken.

Officials say the rising danger of drones, highlighted by their use in modern conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, has forced governments to rethink how they protect crowded public spaces.

Counter-drone technology can include tools such as detection software, electronic jamming, lasers, and other systems designed to track, disable, or capture hostile drones.

While US officials have not specified which technologies will be deployed at World Cup venues, the focus is on rapidly expanding the country’s ability to respond to airborne threats.

The federal push is being reinforced at the state level. Earlier this year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency provided $250 million to 11 states hosting World Cup matches to purchase their own drone-defense equipment. Together, these investments signal how seriously US authorities are treating the growing risk of drone attacks at major international events.