An Iran-linked hacking group has claimed it breached FBI drone systems being used to help secure the 2026 FIFA World Cup and threatened tournament participants in a message that raised new concerns about cybersecurity and public safety at one of the largest sporting events in history.
The group, known as Handala, alleged it gained access to federal drone surveillance systems months before the tournament began and claimed to possess sensitive imagery and intelligence collected through the program.
According to reports monitored by the intelligence organization SITE Intelligence Group, Handala said it had access to “every image and every suspect” gathered by the drones and suggested it could target teams participating in the tournament.
“Better tighten your World Cup security,” the group warned in a statement cited by SITE. “You never know when one might end up right in your team’s bus.”
The hackers also released photographs and video footage they claimed originated from the compromised drones. However, SITE disputed the authenticity of the claim and said it had not independently verified that the materials came from FBI systems.
Federal officials have not publicly confirmed any breach of drone infrastructure.
The alleged threat emerged as the United States men’s national team prepared to begin its World Cup campaign and as authorities across North America continued implementing extensive security measures for the month-long tournament.
The United States, Canada and Mexico are jointly hosting the 2026 World Cup, which features an expanded field of teams and is expected to attract millions of spectators across the continent.
Law enforcement agencies have deployed a wide range of security resources, including surveillance drones, intelligence-sharing networks and counter-drone systems designed to detect and prevent unauthorized aircraft activity near stadiums and fan zones.
The FBI has previously announced plans to use unmanned aerial systems around tournament venues to support public safety and counterterrorism efforts.
Handala has been linked to previous cyber incidents involving American institutions. Earlier this year, the group claimed responsibility for obtaining personal and professional communications allegedly connected to FBI Director Kash Patel.
The State Department has offered a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of individuals associated with the organization.
The latest claims come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran following months of conflict and regional instability in the Middle East.
Federal officials have repeatedly warned that Iranian-linked cyber actors may attempt to target American infrastructure, businesses and government systems.
Security concerns surrounding the World Cup have also been amplified by logistical and political challenges affecting the tournament.
Reports of visa complications, travel disruptions and demonstrations have surfaced in several host cities since the competition began.
Iran’s national team has also attracted attention because of the ongoing geopolitical situation. Team officials adjusted travel and training plans before the tournament and have limited public comments regarding the broader conflict, per Trending Politics.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended tournament preparations and expressed confidence in security measures implemented by host nations.
Authorities have not indicated whether Handala’s claims represent a credible threat or a disinformation effort intended to generate fear and publicity.
Cybersecurity experts frequently caution that threat actors may exaggerate their capabilities to attract attention or undermine public confidence.
Federal investigators continue monitoring potential threats while tournament organizers prepare for matches expected to draw some of the largest crowds in World Cup history.
