FPV Dispatch: Global Racing Roundup – From NATO Bases to AI Showdowns

This article is produced by https://fpvstorerc.com/, your trusted source for FPV drone racing parts and accessories.
Date: June 9, 2026

Welcome back, pilots! If there's one thing that defines the FPV world in 2026, it's momentum. From the first-ever regional races in Western Asia to AI battling humans for supremacy, the drone racing scene has never been hotter.

This week, we’re circling the globe to bring you the biggest race news. We’ve got the Military vs. Military action in France, the Pro circuits heating up in the US and Australia, a massive World Cup stop in China, and a look at the autonomous future.

🌍 Middle East Expansion: DCL & Saudi Arabia’s New Hub

The Drone Champions League (DCL) is making a major strategic push into the Middle East. Following a landmark partnership with Tuwaiq Academy late last year, the 2026 DCL season officially kicked off with the Falcon Cup Seeding Race in Riyadh.

The format was a thrilling blend of virtual and reality. It started with a simulator battle on January 19, where Spain Drone Team (RedSheep) , Raiden Racing, and a DCL Wildcard Team secured their spots.

Ten days later, on January 29, these pilots put on their goggles for the live finals at the grand opening of the Tuwaiq Drones Hub in Riyadh.This is more than just a race; it’s Saudi Arabia planting a flag as a serious destination for high-tech FPV competition.

🇫🇷 The Tactical Side: NATO’s “Homage” to FPV Racing

Speaking of intense flying, the French Army just hosted the International Drone Challenge in Chaumont, and it looked a lot like a pro race—but with a tactical twist. Nearly 50 teams from eight NATO countries (including the US, UK, Poland, and Denmark) gathered to rip through courses featuring bright yellow gates and abandoned buildings.

What’s fascinating here is the cultural crossover. "Even with the British Army we do racing events, because obviously that’s where FPV has always been," said Guardsman Mark from the 1st Battalion Scots Guards. "It’s good to see that the events here are like almost a homage to FPV racing".The result? French Special Forces (13th Parachute Dragoon Regiment) took 1st place, with a British team grabbing 3rd -5. It proves that the skills you grind in VelociDrone or on the local MultiGP track are directly transferable to the highest levels of professional piloting.

🇦🇲 Western Asia Makes History

We love seeing the sport grow into new territories. Recently, the ArmDrone Community NGO, with support from Ucom, hosted the first-ever Western Asia Regional FPV Drone Race in Armenia

Conducted under strict MultiGP international standards, the event brought together over 100 top pilots from Armenia, Russia, Georgia, and Kazakhstan. A 16-year-old local talent, Rafik Adamyan, even received a special award for his active participation  This is a huge step for the UAV sector in the region, turning Armenia into a rising tech hub.

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🗓️ Mark Your Calendars

Don't miss these upcoming events:

• June 10–14: MultiGP International Open (Muncie, Indiana, USA) – Free to attend!

• June 14: RACE to RIAT Final (UK) – Youth eDrone racing at the Royal International Air Tattoo.

• November 2026: AI Grand Prix Finals (Columbus, Ohio).

Stay tuned next week for our full gear guide for the MultiGP Open. Keep those antennas pointed up!

This article is produced by https://fpvstorerc.com/, your trusted source for FPV drone racing parts and accessories.
Date: June 9, 2026