World Cup security concerns grow as ICE refuses to pause operations

ICE confirms it will continue enforcement operations during the World Cup despite mounting public concern
Lawmakers warn fan confidence is falling following fatal incidents involving US citizens
FIFA insists safety remains its top priority across all host cities

The acting head of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has confirmed the agency will not pause operations during this summer’s World Cup, insisting ICE remains a central part of the tournament’s security planning.

Todd Lyons told a congressional committee that ICE was a “key part of the overall security apparatus” after being asked whether enforcement operations would be halted around matches and official FIFA events. His comments came amid rising political and public pressure following the fatal shooting of two American citizens during recent immigration crackdowns.

Lyons and senior officials were questioned by lawmakers on the House committee on homeland security after ICE agents shot and killed Alex Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis. Their deaths sparked widespread outrage and intensified scrutiny of federal enforcement tactics.

Representative Nellie Pou, whose New Jersey district includes MetLife Stadium where the World Cup final will be staged, warned that ongoing ICE activity risked damaging the tournament.

She told the committee that fan confidence was “plummeting and jeopardising the World Cup”, asking Lyons directly whether the agency would commit to pausing operations around matches.

Lyons replied that ICE remained “dedicated to securing that operation” and to ensuring the safety of players, officials and visitors.

Pou responded by warning that supporters fearful of wrongful detention would stay away. “If fans feel they are going to be wrongfully incarcerated or pulled out, that is going to hurt this entire process,” she said.

“Yes ma’am,” Lyons replied. “ICE is dedicated to ensuring that everyone that visits the facilities will have a safe and secure event.”

The deaths of Pretti and Good occurred during enforcement actions that saw around 3,000 agents deployed in Minneapolis at the direction of President Donald Trump as part of a nationwide immigration crackdown. Some agents have since been withdrawn from the city following public backlash.

Concerns over security and policing have also been raised internationally. Last month, fan group Football Supporters Europe said it was “extremely concerned by the ongoing militarisation of police forces in the US” ahead of the tournament.

The European Democratic Party added it may urge national football federations to consider withdrawing unless clear safety guarantees are provided.

FIFA has repeatedly stated that the safety and security of fans and participants remains its top priority. The governing body said it is working closely with local authorities to plan, coordinate and deliver comprehensive security measures across all venues.

The United States will host 78 matches across 11 cities, while co-hosts Canada and Mexico will stage 13 matches each. With the opening game approaching, pressure is growing on authorities to reassure travelling supporters that they can attend safely.

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Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.