Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe FBI has imposed a strict ban on drones around World Cup stadiums in the US, citing significant security threats. At least 15 drones have already been confiscated near Atlanta's stadium, with violators facing fines up to $100,000 and potential federal charges. High-ranking law enforcement officials, including NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, consider drones one of the biggest safety threats, referencing their use in the Ukraine conflict. The FBI has launched a counter-drone training programme for local police, with 70 officers trained for World Cup host cities, and director Kash Patel described the event as 'the biggest lift in FBI history'. Despite these efforts, Homeland Security acknowledged being 'behind' on counter-drone measures, and the FBI advises drone owners to check flight restrictions via FAA-approved services. In full15 drones have already been seized by the FBI after entering no-fly zones around one World Cup venueThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

On Thursday, the first whistle blew, ushering in the largest sporting event the US has ever hosted — or secured.

Police said two more people have been charged after drones were flown near the FIFA Fan Festival on Friday, bringing the total number of intercepted drones linked to tournament…