Jamaica Drone Soccer gets $1.35 Million boost ahead of South Korea Competition

Jamaica’s emerging drone soccer movement has received a significant boost as the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport has allocated $1.35 million to support the national team’s participation in an international competition in South Korea from July 11 to 18, 2026.

The investment, announced by Minister Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, represents a major step in Jamaica’s efforts to support innovative sporting disciplines while creating new opportunities for young people to develop skills at the intersection of sports, technology and entrepreneurship.

Drone soccer is more than a competitive game. The fast-growing sport combines the excitement of traditional athletics with the principles of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Players must master drone operation, strategy, teamwork, problem-solving and technical skills, making it a unique platform for youth development and innovation.

For Jamaica, the growth of drone soccer represents an opportunity to expand the country’s sporting footprint beyond traditional disciplines and introduce young people to emerging global industries driven by technology.

Minister Grange said the Government’s support reflects its commitment to investing in programmes that encourage creativity, innovation and national pride.

Jamaica Drone Soccer has been steadily building a reputation as one of the country’s most exciting emerging sporting initiatives. Since its introduction locally, the programme has attracted young athletes, technology enthusiasts and educators, while creating awareness about the possibilities of drone technology.

“What is happening in Jamaica through drone soccer shows how sport continues to evolve and how technology can create new opportunities for our young people,” Minister Grange said.

“Players must master drone operation, strategy, teamwork, problem-solving, and technical skills, making it a unique platform for youth development and innovation. The fast-growing sport combines the excitement of traditional athletics with the principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM),” she added. 

The ministry said these accomplishments have elevated Jamaica’s profile on the global stage of technology and innovation and positioned the country as a regional leader in tech-based sport.

Through training, competitions and demonstrations, Jamaica Drone Soccer has helped to introduce a new generation to skills that extend beyond the playing arena. Participants are exposed to drone engineering, flight control, strategic thinking and collaborative problem-solving, competencies that are increasingly valuable in the global economy.

The team’s recent performances have also helped to raise Jamaica’s profile in the international drone soccer community, demonstrating the potential of Jamaican athletes to compete in innovative sporting spaces.

The upcoming competition in South Korea marks another important milestone, giving Team Jamaica the opportunity to test its skills against international competitors while showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in technology-based sports.

President and Coach of Jamaica Drone Soccer Dervon McKellop welcomed the Ministry’s support, describing it as a significant investment in the team’s preparation and Jamaica’s continued growth in the sport.

“We are deeply grateful for the tremendous support we have received from the Government of Jamaica and our valued public and private sector partners who continue to believe in the transformative power of Drone Soccer. Their investment is not only helping Team Jamaica compete on the international stage, but it is also creating meaningful opportunities for thousands of young people to develop skills in science, technology, engineering and innovation,” he said. 

“We extend our sincere appreciation to the Ministry for recognising the value of this initiative and for supporting our mission to introduce drone technology and aerial robotics to schools and communities across the island. Together with partners like the Ministry, we are building a strong ecosystem that empowers our youth, encourages innovation and prepares them for careers in the rapidly evolving digital economy,” McKellop said. 

As they travel to the Republic of Korea to compete at the FIDA International Cup, McKellop said they proudly carry the hopes of a nation that has embraced their vision. 

As the team prepares for South Korea, officials believe the experience will help accelerate the development of drone soccer locally and inspire more young Jamaicans to explore careers in technology, engineering and innovation.

With support from the Government and private-sector partners, Jamaica Drone Soccer is helping to redefine what sporting excellence can look like, combining athletic ability, technical skill and imagination as Jamaica enters a new era of technology-driven competition.