US government make decision on ICE presence at World Cup

The Trump administration has reportedly made a decision on whether US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents (ICE) will be present in and around FIFA World Cup stadiums.

Ahead of the tournament — set to take place across the US, Mexico and Canada in June and July — concerns have already been raised about the potential presence of ICE agents.

ICE’s role involves enforcing immigration laws and investigating crimes such as human trafficking.

However, earlier this year, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) faced heavy criticism following incidents in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in which two US citizens — Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti — died during encounters involving federal agents.

Following the deaths, there were calls for nations to boycott World Cup matches in the US amid safety concerns.

But, as things stand, according to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, all 48 nations will take part, including Iran, despite the country being embroiled in conflict with the US.

Previously, acting ICE head Toddy Lyons insisted that “ICE is dedicated to ensuring that everyone who visits the facilities will have a safe and secure event” during the tournament.

Then, in March, New Jersey congresswoman Nellie Pou introduced the ‘Save the World Cup’ bill with the intention of preventing fans from being detained and removed by agents within one mile of stadiums and fan zones.

Decision made on ICE role at FIFA World Cup

Now, a decision on whether ICE will operate in close proximity to US World Cup stadiums appears to have been made.

According to Rodney Barreto, co-chair of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee, ICE will not be at the games.

“ICE is not going to be at the stadium,” Barreto told The Athletic.

“This is not going to turn into some ‘round them up’ type of thing. That’s not the purpose of this.

“It’ll be a great experience for everybody. I think that we’re lucky that we do have a president who loves sports and has given us the resources to reimburse the cities for their police protection.”

Barreto then explained how he has spoken directly to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who said he is “going to make sure that the passports get processed and people can get here, and there is an orderly process so people won’t be held up”.

He added: “It’s going to be a major undertaking by the federal government to do that. We feel very comfortable that we’re going to be in good hands.”

Miami Stadium will host seven of the 104 World Cup matches, including the bronze clash as well as four group fixtures and a round of 32 game.