European Soccer Club Cancels US Tour Over Minnesota ICE Shootings

Concerns over World Cup boycott loom as team cites safety fears in Minnesota.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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A prominent European soccer club has canceled its planned tour of the United States this May, citing safety concerns after recent shootings involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota. The club was set to play a pair of friendly matches in Minneapolis and Detroit, but has now decided to look for alternative destinations amid growing fears of a potential World Cup boycott.

Why it matters

The decision by this high-profile European soccer club to cancel its U.S. tour highlights the growing tensions and safety concerns around immigration enforcement actions, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It also raises questions about how international sports teams and events may respond to perceived threats to player and fan safety.

The details

The German soccer club, whose name was not disclosed, was planning to spend a week in the Twin Cities and Detroit in May to play a pair of friendly matches against unspecified opponents. However, the club has now decided to cancel those plans and look for alternative destinations for its preseason tour, citing the recent ICE-involved shootings in Minnesota as the primary reason.

  • The club was set to visit Minneapolis and Detroit in May 2026.
  • The decision to cancel the U.S. tour was made on February 20, 2026.

The players

German soccer club

A prominent European soccer team that was planning a preseason tour of the United States.

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What’s next

The club is now exploring alternative destinations in Europe or Asia for its preseason tour.

The takeaway

This decision highlights the broader geopolitical tensions and safety concerns that international sports teams and events must navigate, especially in the lead-up to major tournaments like the 2026 World Cup that will be co-hosted by the United States.