Feds Warn Fans of Counterfeit World Cup Merchandise

Authorities aim to disrupt sale of fake jerseys, hats, tickets and more ahead of 2026 FIFA event

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:23am

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An extreme close-up of a counterfeit FIFA World Cup jersey tag, its poor quality and irregular markings exposed by harsh flash lighting against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the problem of illicit sports merchandise.Federal authorities are cracking down on the sale of counterfeit World Cup merchandise, which can cheat fans and fund other criminal activities.Boston Today

As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, federal authorities are warning sports fans to remain vigilant against criminals seeking to profit from the global event by selling counterfeit merchandise. ICE, Customs and Border Protection, and other agencies are working to identify and seize fake goods, while also educating consumers on how to spot fraudulent products.

Why it matters

The sale of counterfeit sports merchandise is a major problem that can cheat fans, undermine legitimate businesses, and even fund other criminal activities. With the World Cup drawing a massive global audience, authorities expect a surge in illicit trade and are taking proactive steps to protect consumers and legitimate sellers.

The details

Throughout the year, ICE's Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and state and local law enforcement work to identify and disrupt the sale of counterfeit goods. Last year alone, authorities seized over 276,000 counterfeit sports-related items valued at more than $33 million. With the World Cup on the horizon, ICE expects similar criminal activity and is taking steps to protect consumers and businesses.

  • In 2025, authorities seized over 276,000 counterfeit sports-related items valued at more than $33 million.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place in the coming year.

The players

ICE

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a federal law enforcement agency that investigates transnational crimes including the sale of counterfeit goods.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

A federal law enforcement agency that monitors and secures the U.S. border, including interdicting shipments of counterfeit merchandise.

National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center

A task force led by ICE that coordinates intellectual property enforcement efforts across federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

Charles Wall

ICE Deputy Director who issued a statement warning about counterfeit merchandise ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

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What they’re saying

“Every year, major international sporting events attract bad actors who attempt to cash in by selling fake jerseys, hats, tickets and memorabilia. These counterfeit goods are often marketed online and in person, preying on fan enthusiasm and making it difficult to identify authentic products from fraudulent ones.”

— Charles Wall, ICE Deputy Director

What’s next

Authorities will continue to monitor for and seize counterfeit World Cup merchandise in the lead-up to the 2026 tournament, with a focus on online marketplaces, e-commerce platforms, and retail outlets.

The takeaway

The sale of counterfeit sports merchandise is a persistent problem that can cheat fans, undermine legitimate businesses, and fund other criminal activities. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, federal agencies are taking proactive steps to disrupt the illicit trade and educate consumers on how to spot fake goods, helping ensure the event is enjoyable and safe for all.