The Mexican military intercepted a drone flying over the South Korean national soccer team’s training camp ahead of their World Cup match against Mexico on June 19. Both teams are currently 1-0 and are competing for the lead in Group A.
Mexican forces utilized specialized equipment to detect an unregistered drone near the South Korean camp, leading to its neutralization, according to a Mexican federal agent speaking to The Associated Press. The intent of the drone, whether it was attempting to gather information on the South Korean team, remains unclear.
South Korea's coach, Hong Myung-bo, described the incident as "unfortunate," noting that it occurred just before a tactical practice session. He stated, "Fortunately, it was right before we practiced 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 interception was part of a broader security plan for the World Cup, which began last week in Mexico City and is co-hosted by the United States and Canada until July 19. In March, Mexican authorities announced a security operation named "Plan Kukulkán," which involves approximately 100,000 personnel from military and police forces. This plan includes various security measures at stadiums, airports, roads, and hotels, as well as protocols for teams and fans.
In Canada, authorities have prohibited unauthorized drones from flying over World Cup stadiums and training sites in Vancouver and Toronto as a precautionary measure, which will remain in effect until July 7, the date of the last scheduled game in the country.
In a related incident, the Canadian women's national team faced sanctions in 2024 for using a drone to spy on a New Zealand training session prior to their match at the Paris Olympics, resulting in the suspension of coaching staff and a points deduction in their standings.
Mexico won its opening Group A match at the World Cup on June 18, while South Korea defeated the Czech Republic later that same day.