Media: US fears drones, lone-wolf terror attacks during World Cup 2026

Law enforcement agencies in the United States tasked with securing the 2026 FIFA World Cup are expected to face growing threats from drones, artificial intelligence, and lone-wolf terrorist attacks, CNN reports.

Authorities are particularly concerned about small civilian drones that are easily available and can be modified to carry explosives. In response, the FBI has been training police departments across the country to neutralise unmanned aerial vehicles. The New York City Police Department alone has spent $6.5 million on anti-drone equipment.

However, the primary concern is the threat of attacks by lone individuals targeting crowds. Officials are also wary of fan violence, citing recent clashes following the third NBA Finals game in New York as an example.

Additional tensions stem from the presence of the Iranian national team. 

“Upset fans in the (Iranian) diaspora could cause clashes at the Fan Festival and other events taking place in the Los Angeles area of responsibility,” according to the joint FBI-DHS threat assessment. “If Iran does play, the threat of transnational repression on local members of the Iranian diaspora will be cause for concern.”

Security officials also warn about risks linked to artificial intelligence, particularly the use of fake videos designed to spread panic among fans and participants during the tournament.

By Jeyhun Aghazada