The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency says officers will be on duty on a day-by-day basis throughout the entire duration of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As part of one of the most extensive security operations ever planned, border agents are preparing for the influx of football fans by bolstering security during the tournament.
Speaking in a video posted to the agency’s social media accounts, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Markwayne Mullin, assured that agents will be working to prevent crime that can often follow large sporting events.
The agency is ready to combat problems that can be associated with global tournaments of this size and scope – issues that include counterfeit tickets and counterfeit items, human trafficking and drug smuggling. The event is set to draw hundreds of thousands, even millions of visitors to matches taking place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“ICE and HSI are going to be out there every day. When you have crowds this big, criminal activities follow,” stated the Secretary.
Federal authorities are to collaborate on an unprecedented level with local law enforcement agencies during the course of the World Cup. Robert Luna, Los Angeles County Sheriff, said he would work with the FBI, Secret Service, and others on matches scheduled in California.
SoFi Stadium is to play host to eight World Cup fixtures, including the United States’ opening game on June 12, when they take on Paraguay.
The officials said their mission is focused on both public safety and criminal enforcement, and they did not anticipate any mass immigration raids during the games.
