FIFA Demands Trump Halt ICE Raids at 2026 World Cup

In a bold move to safeguard the integrity and inclusivity of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA is reportedly considering a request to President Donald Trump to implement a temporary moratorium on ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids during the tournament.

According to a report from The Athletic, FIFA president Gianni Infantino is receptive to a proposal that would see the global soccer governing body formally call on the US government to halt deportation efforts and immigration enforcement activities for the duration of the World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the prestigious tournament will be held across three countries. With millions of international fans expected to descend on host cities across North America, there are growing concerns that aggressive ICE operations could disrupt the event and deter some supporters from attending.

"FIFA has a responsibility to ensure the World Cup is a celebration of football that is open and accessible to all," said one anonymous source familiar with the organization's internal discussions. "The prospect of aggressive immigration enforcement actions targeting fans and players is deeply troubling and could undermine the entire event."

While details of the proposal remain scarce, it is believed that Infantino and other senior FIFA officials have already begun preliminary talks with the Trump administration about the possibility of a temporary moratorium. However, it remains to be seen whether the famously hardline US president would be willing to accede to such a request, especially in the lead-up to a contentious election year.

Nonetheless, FIFA's willingness to engage the White House on this issue underscores the growing recognition within the sport's governing body that the 2026 World Cup faces unique logistical and political challenges that could undermine the event if not properly addressed.

"This isn't just about ensuring the smooth running of a sporting event," the source added. "It's about upholding the fundamental values of inclusivity, diversity, and human rights that are at the heart of the World Cup experience. FIFA has a moral obligation to do everything in its power to protect fans, players, and officials from the threat of deportation or detention."