• ICE Presence at the World Cup Raises Concern Among Immigrants
  • Community Safe Spaces Created
  • Free Legal Advice Offered

The participation of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, agents in the security plan for the 2026 World Cup has generated concern among immigrant communities in different host cities.

Although federal authorities have said there will be no mass raids or widespread immigration checks inside stadiums, community organizations have begun mobilizing to provide support, information, and guidance to those who want to enjoy the tournament without fear.

  • Why it matters: For thousands of immigrants, the World Cup represents an opportunity to celebrate one of the most important sporting events on the planet.

However, the presence of ICE in security operations has caused concern among families who fear that any contact with federal agents could lead to immigration consequences.

ICE at World Cup 2026 Puts Immigrants on Alert

In response to this scenario, activists and community groups have promoted initiatives to offer safe spaces where fans can gather to watch matches.

In addition to community screenings, these activities include access to free legal advice, information on immigration resources, and guidance on how to act in case of detention.

The strategy seeks to prevent fear of ICE from stopping immigrant families from participating in World Cup-related celebrations.

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One of the most visible campaigns is No ICE in the Cup, a national initiative that promotes community gatherings to watch tournament matches and participate in cultural and artistic activities linked to the event.

“The World Cup deserves to be a safe space for families and people to come together and celebrate the people’s sport, soccer,” said Eva Arreguin.

“We are very excited to spread our message that ICE has no place in the World Cup,” she added.

Authorities Rule Out Mass Immigration Operations

ICE’s security deployment for the 2026 World Cup in the New York and New Jersey region began on June 13, according to El Financiero.

According to federal officials, the agency’s participation is part of a broader security plan for large-scale events.

Authorities said ICE’s role is focused on prevention and response to possible incidents related to tournament security.

They also insisted that the strategy does not include mass immigration operations inside sports venues.

Despite these statements, activists and members of migrant communities believe the visible presence of federal agents continues to generate concern.

Concern also remains in other host cities, including Arlington, where some sectors of the immigrant community are continuing to monitor how the operations develop.

Legal Advice and Emergency Plans for Immigrants

As part of the community efforts, a gathering was scheduled to watch the match between South Korea and Mexico in Fort Worth.

During the event, attorneys from the Mexican American Bar Association will offer free legal advice to attendees.

Information related to immigration resources and preparation plans for possible detentions will also be distributed.

“We simply want to make sure people are proactive and have a plan in case something happens,” Sandra Avalos explained.

Organizers are also preparing a second community gathering for July 19 in Oak Cliff.

So far, the location of the event has not been revealed.

Among the recommendations shared by volunteers is carrying or memorizing the A-number, used by the Department of Homeland Security to identify immigration files.

They also advise having phone numbers for close family members available.

The federal presence will not be limited only to MetLife Stadium, the main World Cup venue in the New York and New Jersey region.

The security deployment will also cover fan gathering areas, official festivals, and other spaces linked to the tournament’s organization.

As preparations for the 2026 World Cup move forward, community organizations continue developing strategies so immigrants can take part in the global soccer celebration with greater peace of mind and access to preventive legal information.