A union representing employees at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium, a key venue for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, has formally requested that FIFA prohibit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from accessing the stadium grounds. The workers argue that the presence of federal immigration officers would create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation, particularly for staff members and their families who may have uncertain immigration statuses.
In a statement, union representatives emphasized that the World Cup should be a celebration of global unity and sport, not an event where workers feel threatened by potential enforcement actions. "We are calling on FIFA to ensure our stadium is a safe space for everyone," the statement read. "The beautiful game should not be marred by the anxiety of immigration raids."
The petition highlights ongoing tensions between immigrant communities and federal immigration policies, casting a spotlight on how major international events intersect with domestic political issues. FIFA has yet to issue a public response to the request.