FIFA weighs Trump approach on ICE activity during World Cup

Senior FIFA management have discussed the possibility of Gianni Infantino asking President Donald Trump for a nationwide pause on ICE raids during the 2026 World Cup, according to people familiar with internal talks.The idea has been raised as a risk-management measure ahead of the 39-day tournament, with concerns that visible immigration enforcement could affect fan travel, venue operations and FIFA’s human rights commitments.White House spokesperson Davis Ingle did not address the specifics of any FIFA request but said the administration’s priority is delivery and security.“Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history of mankind, right here in the United States of America. "This event will generate billions of dollars of economic impact and bring hundreds of thousands of jobs to our country. The president is focused on making this the greatest World Cup ever while ensuring it is the safest and most secure in history.”FIFA declined to comment publicly on the internal discussions, and it is unclear whether Infantino has made any request or whether the White House would consider it.The proposal has moved beyond keeping ICE away from stadiums, with FIFA executives discussing a wider pause that would apply across the US during the tournament because teams, staff and fans will travel well beyond match venues.Trump has maintained a hardline immigration agenda since returning to office, and ICE’s presence has already been positioned by US officials as part of the broader security framework around major events.ICE acting director Todd Lyons told lawmakers his agency would be involved in tournament security activity.“ICE, specifically Homeland Security Investigations, is a key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup. We’re dedicated to securing that operation, and we’re dedicated to the security of all our participants as well as visitors.”Vice President JD Vance has also emphasised visa compliance for visitors.“We want them to come. We want them to celebrate. We want them to watch the game. But when the time is up, they’ll have to go home. Otherwise, they’ll have to talk to Secretary Noem.”The White House World Cup task force executive director Andrew Giuliani said Trump has given him a clear instruction. “Ensure a safe and secure World Cup.”Pressure on FIFA has increased after labour leaders at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles threatened strike action, listing concerns about ICE among workplace demands tied to the World Cup.Human Rights Watch has also urged FIFA to seek public assurances from federal authorities on immigration enforcement around matches and venues, adding to a growing compliance burden for organisers, host cities and commercial partners.