Carabao Cup match interrupted by drone at Highbury Stadium

The Carabao Cup fourth-round match between Fleetwood Town and Arsenal was temporarily suspended on October 27, 2026, after an unidentified drone was spotted flying over the Highbury Stadium. The incident occurred during the second minute of play, prompting referee Michael Salisbury to halt the game for safety reasons.

Players from both teams were directed off the pitch while match officials coordinated with security. Fans expressed confusion and dissatisfaction during the delay, which lasted for approximately eight minutes. According to reports, the situation was resolved following intervention by local police, who managed to locate the drone operator.

Following the police action, the players returned to the field, and the match resumed around the 10th minute. This unusual disruption caused significant surprise among participants and spectators, though no further technical or safety complications were reported as the match proceeded.