ICE Won't Arrest World Cup Fans in US Stadiums

ICE agents will not be present to arrest fans at FIFA World Cup games in the US, unlike past events where fears of immigration enforcement were raised.
By Newsroom | Sports, Immigration |

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mullin stated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will not be present at the FIFA World Cup "to go round up" individuals, aiming to quell fears surrounding the agency's role in the upcoming global sporting event. This assertion comes as decisions regarding ICE's proximity to US stadiums appear finalized, following past criticisms of the agency's immigration enforcement policies during international gatherings.

The agency's involvement will be spearheaded by its Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) division, which primarily focuses on intelligence and combating international crime, distinct from ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) that handle detainments and deportations. While HSI's mandate is to secure participants and visitors, the exact nature of ICE's activities remains somewhat unclear, prompting concerns from human rights organizations.

Human rights groups have raised alarms regarding potential risks and the impact of US immigration policies on the tournament. Previous instances, such as an ICE arrest at a FIFA event and protests during the Winter Olympics in Italy over the agency's role, highlight these ongoing apprehensions. These groups have urged FIFA to call on US authorities to avoid targeting World Cup events for immigration enforcement.

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The uncertainty persists despite assurances that ICE's primary focus is security. Acting ICE Director Tae Johnson previously indicated the agency is a "key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup" and refused to commit to pausing operations near tournament events. This stance has fueled worries among those who fear aggressive immigration enforcement could undermine the event's stated values of inclusion and global participation.

The World Cup's extensive scale necessitates federal involvement, with ICE's presence at such events following a historical pattern. This year's tournament, set to unfold across the US, Mexico, and Canada, is occurring amidst a period of heightened immigration enforcement, drawing scrutiny from international observers and rights advocates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will ICE arrest people at the FIFA World Cup games in the US?
No, the Department of Homeland Security Secretary has stated that ICE will not be present at the FIFA World Cup games in the US to arrest individuals. The focus will be on security and combating international crime.
Q: What is ICE's role during the World Cup in the US?
ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) division will lead security efforts. HSI focuses on intelligence and fighting international crime, not on detaining or deporting people.
Q: Why are people worried about ICE at the World Cup?
Human rights groups are concerned that US immigration policies could affect attendees. Past incidents at international events have led to fears of aggressive immigration enforcement during the World Cup.
Q: What has ICE said about its presence at the World Cup?
Acting ICE Director Tae Johnson previously stated the agency is a key part of the overall security for the World Cup. He did not commit to pausing operations near tournament events, which has caused ongoing worry.
Q: Where will the FIFA World Cup be held?
This year's FIFA World Cup will be held across the US, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament is happening during a time of increased focus on immigration enforcement.