South Korea expresses anger over alleged espionage attempt in 2026 World Cup: "It was lamentable"

South Korea's national football team has voiced strong displeasure following an alleged espionage attempt involving a drone over their training grounds in Mexico. The incident occurred at Verde Valle, the facility where the team was preparing for their 2026 World Cup match against Mexico.

According to reports, the drone was spotted hovering over the training pitch and was quickly detected by the team's security personnel. Mexican authorities were called in and successfully neutralized the device using electronic interference systems, causing it to descend onto the field. The South Korean Football Federation has reportedly lodged a complaint with FIFA, seeking a thorough investigation into the matter.

“

While we were training, there was indeed a drone flying overhead, we only found out now. Fortunately, what happened was before practice began and before our tactics were developed, so it didn't affect us, but it is true that we were preparing and what happened was lamentable.

Head coach Hong Myung-bo addressed the incident ahead of the match, expressing his dismay. "While we were training, there was indeed a drone flying overhead; we only found out now. Fortunately, what happened was before practice began and before our tactics were developed, so it didn't affect us, but it is true that we were preparing and what happened was lamentable," he stated.

Despite the off-field controversy, coach Hong Myung-bo also commented on the upcoming match, acknowledging Mexico's strength. "Czech Republic and Mexico are two different teams; their styles are distinct from each other. This week, with my players, we have shared different perspectives, different analyses. We know that Mexico is very strong and we will have to play well," he added, shifting focus back to the tactical challenges of the game.

“

Czech Republic and Mexico are two different teams; their styles are distinct from each other. This week, with my players, we have shared different perspectives, different analyses. We know that Mexico is very strong and we will have to play well.