Mexican military forces neutralized a suspicious unauthorized drone flying close to South Korea’s training camp as the team prepares for their World Cup match against Mexico.
The unregistered drone was detected by surveillance technology on the ground before being brought down, according to a federal official who spoke on condition of anonymity with The Associated Press.
Mexican authorities are enforcing an extensive security operation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by Mexico along with the U.S and Canada. While it is not confirmed whether the drone’s operator intended to scout South Korea’s team or what the intent was, concerns of potential espionage before the Group A clash are evident. “It’s very regrettable,” South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo said of the drone incident.
“Fortunately, the drone was spotted right before the main tactical training, and no time was lost.” The drone was the latest of a series of unauthorized drones to be deactivated by authorities in Mexico in the past few days for attempting to fly into restricted zones near stadiums, training grounds, and fan festival areas.
Earlier this year, Mexican officials announced the deployment of 100,000 soldiers and police personnel as part of ‘Plan Kukulkn’, aimed at protecting participants and spectators for the duration of the tournament.
The drone incident inevitably conjured images of similar issues seen at the Paris Olympics, where the Canadian women’s football team faced a controversial incident involving a drone allegedly used for scouting, resulting in penalties.
