Pro-immigrant organizations and civil rights advocates demanded on Monday that the FIFA provide security guarantees for fans at the 2026 World Cup, insisting that the stadiums in the United States remain free of immigration agents, following reports of operations at matches in the current club world tournament, which have instilled fear and led to semi-empty stadiums.
In a press conference outside the FIFA headquarters in Miami, activists like Yareliz Méndez from the American Friends Service Committee publicly demanded that “there should be no ICE presence” at the matches, and called on the Miami city government and Miami-Dade County to end the 287(g) agreements that allow local police to cooperate with immigration authorities, reported the agency EFE.
"These agreements are causing chaos, fear, and uncertainty," Méndez stated at the conference.
Activists recalled that, despite the investment of 46 million dollars in the Club World Cup, the stands appear empty. “Some tickets have been sold for less than four dollars, and yet the stadiums are empty,” denounced Thomas Kennedy from the Florida Immigrant Coalition (FIC).
Attorney Will Mann from the Community Justice Project warned that 287(g) agreements turn local forces into extensions of ICE, creating a dangerous environment for residents who fear being detained in their daily lives. "It would be a humanitarian tragedy and an international disgrace" if this happens again during the 2026 World Cup, he cautioned.
For his part, Paul Christian Namphy of the Family Action Network Movement urged FIFA to publicly ensure the respect for the rights and dignity of fans and workers, to prevent the World Cup from becoming an event remembered for chaos rather than for sporting celebration.
According to EFE, the activists also targeted Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, accusing her of remaining silent regarding immigration operations despite being part of the event's organizing committee.
Regarding the topic, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, attempted in June to calm the situation by assuring that the tournaments in the United States, Mexico, and Canada “will be a celebration” for fans around the world, and downplayed concerns about the impact of immigration policies.
However, experts warn that the immigration crackdown under the Trump Administration could deter many Latinos from attending games, deepening fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities in the U.S.
Frequently asked questions about ICE exclusion in stadiums in the United States during the 2026 World Cup
Why are pro-immigrant organizations calling for ICE to be excluded from stadiums during the 2026 World Cup?
Pro-immigrant organizations are requesting the exclusion of ICE from stadiums during the 2026 World Cup to ensure the safety and peace of mind of fans. They have reported that immigration operations at recent events have created fear and uncertainty, resulting in semi-empty stadiums and tickets being sold at very low prices. They aim to prevent these situations from recurring and to ensure that the World Cup becomes a fear-free sports celebration.
What are the 287(g) agreements and why are they criticized?
The 287(g) agreements allow cooperation between local police and immigration authorities. They are criticized for turning local forces into extensions of ICE, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty within migrant communities. Activists argue that these agreements lead to chaos and increase the risk of arbitrary detentions during events like the World Cup.
What impact could immigration policies have on the 2026 World Cup?
Immigration policies, especially under the Trump administration, could dissuade many fans, particularly Latinos, from attending the 2026 World Cup due to fears of raids and deportations. Although FIFA has downplayed these risks, the migrant community and activists worry that the repressive environment will impact attendance and enjoyment of the event.
What measures has FIFA taken to ensure attendance at the 2026 World Cup?
FIFA has launched promotional campaigns and reduced ticket prices to increase ticket sales and ensure attendance at the 2026 World Cup. Although it has faced low demand due to migration uncertainty, they continue to promote the event as a global "celebration" for fans.
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