South Korea coach relieved after drone shot down near World Cup training base in Guadalajara

Mexican military forces shot down an unregistered drone spotted near South Korea’s World Cup training base in Guadalajara, raising fears of tactical espionage ahead of the two sides’ Group H meeting on Thursday. The Associated Press reported that special detection equipment was used to “neutralise” the aircraft, with a Mexican federal agent confirming the incident anonymously as they were not authorised to speak publicly.

South Korea head coach Hong Myung-Bo addressed the episode at a press conference on Wednesday, saying his side were fortunate the drone appeared before they began working on their tactical plan.

“So yesterday, during our training, there was a drone in the sky and we came to know about the fact,” Hong said. “But fortunately, it was right before we practiced our tactics. So it did not impact us significantly. But while we were preparing for the match, that was the most important timing. So what happened was unfortunate.”

It remains unclear exactly when the incident took place or whether any arrests were made. According to the AP report, several drones have been neutralised since the tournament began after attempting to enter security zones around stadiums in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey, as well as fan zones and training bases.

Mexican authorities launched a World Cup security operation in March known as “Plan Kukulkan,” deploying around 100,000 personnel from police and military forces. The plan includes early warning systems, security protocols at stadiums, airports, roads and hotels, and protection measures for teams, officials and fans. In Canada, unauthorised drones are banned from flying over World Cup stadiums and training bases in Vancouver and Toronto under measures in place until 7 July.

Thursday’s match carries significant weight for both nations. A South Korea victory would secure their place in the knockout stages, while a win for Mexico would deliver the same result for the hosts.

The drone incident is the latest security story to emerge from the tournament. England’s preparations were also disrupted when their training kit was stolen in transit from Miami to Kansas City, though police subsequently recovered the stolen equipment.