US Government Confirms ICE Will Not Operate at 2026 FIFA World Cup Stadiums

The U.S. government has assured organizers that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will not operate inside or around stadiums during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to Rodney Barreto, co-chair of the Miami Host Committee. Barreto said he received confirmation directly from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized that the event will not be used as a venue for immigration enforcement actions.

The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 104 matches, with 78 held in the U.S., including all knockout games from the quarterfinals onward and the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Eleven U.S. cities, three in Mexico, and two in Canada will host matches, requiring extensive federal and local security coordination.

Earlier concerns arose after acting ICE director Todd Lyons stated the agency would play a "key part" in security operations, prompting backlash from labor unions, supporters' groups, and U.S. lawmakers. Some FIFA member federations, particularly from Europe, privately raised concerns with FIFA about potential ICE activity, and New Jersey Representative Nellie Pou introduced legislation to bar immigration detentions near stadiums and fan zones.

The administration has allocated approximately $625 million in federal security funding to the 11 U.S. host cities. A State Department spokesperson said the safety of athletes, fans, and venues remains a top priority, alongside national security.

The Miami Host Committee said federal authorities will also streamline visa and passport processing for international visitors. The full security protocol will be finalized in coordination with local law enforcement and federal agencies ahead of the tournament, which runs from June to July 2026.