ICE Refuses to Pause Operations for World Cup 2026
ICE Defends Role in World Cup Security Amid Lawmaker Concerns
The acting head of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has confirmed that the agency will remain actively involved in security operations during this summer’s 2026 World Cup, despite calls from lawmakers to pause enforcement activities.
Todd Lyons made the remarks before the House Committee on Homeland Security when asked whether ICE would suspend operations around World Cup matches and related FIFA events.
Lyons told lawmakers that ICE is “a key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup,” adding that the agency is committed to ensuring the safety of players, officials and fans.
“We are dedicated to securing that operation, and we are dedicated to the security of all of our participants as well as visitors,” Lyons stated during the hearing.
The United States is set to host 78 matches across 11 cities, including the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Co-hosts Canada and Mexico will stage 13 matches each.
Representative Nellie Pou, whose district includes MetLife Stadium, questioned whether ICE’s presence could discourage international visitors.
She warned that fan confidence was “plummeting and jeopardising the World Cup,” arguing that fears of wrongful detention could undermine the tournament.
“You realise that if fans feel they are going to be wrongfully incarcerated, wrongfully pulled out, that is going to hurt this entire process?” Pou asked.
Lyons responded that ICE is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all visitors attending World Cup events.
The hearing followed heightened scrutiny of ICE operations after agents shot and killed two American citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, during enforcement actions in Minneapolis.
Both individuals were reportedly shot multiple times. Their deaths triggered widespread protests and criticism, particularly as approximately 3,000 agents had been deployed to the city as part of a broader immigration crackdown directed by President Donald Trump. Some agents have since been withdrawn.
The incidents have intensified debate over the agency’s operational approach ahead of the World Cup.
Concerns have also been raised internationally. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) said it was “extremely concerned by the ongoing militarisation of police forces in the US” ahead of the North American tournament.
The European Democratic Party (EDP) has suggested it may urge national football federations to reconsider participation if sufficient safety guarantees are not provided.
FIFA Responds
FIFA has reiterated that safety and security remain its “top priority.” In a statement, the governing body said it works closely with local authorities to “plan, co-ordinate and deliver comprehensive security measures for the tournament.”
With the World Cup 2026 in the United States drawing closer, debate over the role of ICE in tournament security is likely to remain a key issue for lawmakers, organizers and international supporters alike.
