As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, minority communities, particularly those with Haitian heritage, are voicing significant concerns about potential encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the tournament.

Haiti's return to the World Cup for the first time since 1974 is a moment of immense national pride. However, for many of its diaspora living in the United States, the prospect of attending matches is overshadowed by anxieties stemming from the current U.S. immigration policies.

Emile, a Haitian immigrant residing in Ohio, shared his apprehension about attending his country's matches, with all three group-stage games scheduled in the U.S. He noted that his lawyer advised him against flying to avoid potential issues with ICE. "I don't want to be arrested by ICE," Emile stated, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who fear aggressive enforcement tactics.

The presence and actions of ICE have become a major point of concern, not just for the World Cup but for the broader immigrant community. Immigration advocates highlight that many individuals targeted by ICE have no criminal records and have been contributing to society for decades, paying taxes and establishing lives in the U.S.

With 78 of the 104 World Cup matches taking place in the United States, the fear of ICE presence is amplified. This concern extends beyond the Haitian diaspora to the wider Hispanic community, which constitutes a significant portion of the U.S. population and is particularly concentrated in areas hosting matches.

Monica Sarmiento of the Virginia Coalition for Immigrant Rights emphasized the pervasive fear and the aggressive nature of ICE operations. She noted that these tactics often target not only undocumented individuals but also those with protective status, creating a hostile environment.

Advocacy groups have been vocal in their opposition to any ICE presence at World Cup events. Demonstrations have occurred outside FIFA offices, demanding that the organization ban ICE from venues to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees, especially those who may be vulnerable due to their immigration status.

The situation raises questions about the balance between national security and the inclusive spirit of a global sporting event, leaving many fans in a difficult position between celebrating their national teams and facing potential repercussions from immigration enforcement.