Fleetwood-Arsenal halted for eight minutes because of drone

During Arsenal's match against Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup's last 16, play was halted for over eight minutes due to a drone flying over Highbury Stadium. Referee Michael Salisbury stopped the action with 1 minute and 40 seconds remaining in the first half after noticing the drone hovering above the pitch as Arsenal prepared for a free-kick.

Both team captains and managers were informed by the referee that play would not continue until the drone had left the area. Police were also investigating the incident. As players attempted to stay warm, spectators booed. Following discussions with the managers and captains, the referee allowed players to return to the touchline, but the drone eventually landed in a local housing estate, at which point play resumed.

Seven minutes of additional stoppage time were added to the first half due to the delay. The Football Association's guidance states that the referee must halt the game and alert both team captains and managers when a drone is spotted above a football pitch or stadium. If the drone does not depart, both teams should be instructed to return to their changing rooms, and teams should consult their safety officers when possible. The English Football League (EFL) has been contacted for further comment.