Ahead of World Cup, authorities focused on deterring drones in Seattle
SEATTLE — Flying a drone above FIFA World Cup fan celebrations, practice facilities and matches at Lumen Field could get operators hit with a felony and a fine up to $100,000.
Authorities are particularly worried about aerial drones carrying dangerous payloads, like explosives. They’re acknowledging the risk ahead of the soccer tournament, which will feature matches across North America, including Seattle. Even more harmless acts, like flying a drone with a camera in restricted areas, could result in penalties.
It’s one week until Seattle hosts its first World Cup match, between Belgium and Egypt. The tournament, FIFA’s biggest ever, is expected to bring hordes of visitors to the city, though not as many as had once been anticipated. Seattle will see five more matches through July 6. Fan events and watch parties are planned across the state.
Washington got $19.5 million in federal funding to detect and monitor unmanned aircraft, as part of $250 million in federal grants awarded to the cities hosting matches across the country. The money was appropriated in the “big, beautiful bill” congressional Republicans passed last year.
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/06/08/ahead-of-world-cup-authorities-focused-on-deterring-drones-in-seattle/