Mexican Military Downs Drone Near South Korea's World Cup Training Camp

Mexican military forces intercepted and brought down a drone that flew near the South Korea team’s training camp as they prepared for their World match against the co-hosts.

Military forces used specialised equipment to detect an “unregistered drone” near the camp, prompting them to “neutralise” it, a Mexican federal agent said.

Mexico won their opening Group A match at the World Cup last week while South Korea beat Czechia the same day.

It was not clear if the drone was trying to spy on the South Korean team and the coach, Hong Myung-bo, said: “During our training, there was a drone in the sky,” he said. “But fortunately, it was right before we practised our tactics, so it did not impact us. But while we were preparing for the match, that was the most important timing, so what happened was unfortunate.”

The official did not say when the incident occurred or whether any arrests were made. He said several drones had been neutralised in recent days after attempting to enter security zones around stadiums in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey – the tournament’s three host cities in Mexico – as well as team base camps and fan festivals.

In March, Mexican authorities announced a World Cup security operation known as “Plan Kukulkán,” involving about 100,000 personnel from federal and local military and police forces. The plan includes early warning systems, security measures at stadiums, airports, roads and hotels and protection protocols for teams, officials and fans.

In Canada, authorities have banned unauthorised drones from flying over World Cup stadiums and several training sites in Vancouver and Toronto as a security measure. The restrictions remain in effect until 7 July – the date of the last game scheduled to be staged in the country.

In 2024, the Canada women’s team was accused of using a drone to spy on a New Zealand training session leading up to their opening match at the Paris Olympics. The scandal led to the suspension of two members of the coaching staff and the head coach Bev Priestman, who was subsequently dismissed by Canada Soccer. Canada – the reigning Olympic champions from the Tokyo Games – were deducted six points from their group standings in France.