ICE Presence at World Cup Raises Concerns Among Fans

Fears that celebrations could be replaced by scenes of law enforcement action

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The revelation that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be present at the 2026 World Cup in New Jersey has raised concerns among some local officials and fans. Congresswoman Nellie Pou, whose district includes the MetLife Stadium, expressed worries that the typical scenes of revelry and celebration could be replaced by images of tear gas and batons, potentially scaring away some fans. ICE has stated that its presence is part of the event's security, but some fear that even legal visitors may be mistakenly arrested and detained.

Why it matters

The World Cup is expected to be a major economic boon for the region, with hundreds of thousands of fans traveling to the area. However, the presence of ICE agents has raised fears that some fans, particularly those from immigrant communities, may be deterred from attending, potentially impacting the event's success and the local economy.

The details

ICE, including its Homeland Security Investigations division, has confirmed that it will be part of the security presence at the World Cup. While ICE has stated that its focus will be on those in the country illegally, some are concerned that even legal visitors may be at risk of mistaken arrests and detention. Congresswoman Pou, who is a member of the congressional Committee on Homeland Security, has expressed concerns about ICE's 'draconian' methods and the potential for chaos at the event.

  • The World Cup final will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
  • MetLife Stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup games starting on June 13, 2026.

The players

Nellie Pou

A Democratic Congresswoman whose district includes the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. She is a member of the congressional Committee on Homeland Security and the ranking Democrat on a task force charged with ensuring security at big events, including the World Cup.

Todd Lyons

The acting director of ICE, who confirmed that the agency, 'specifically Homeland Security Investigations,' is a 'key part' of World Cup security.

Tricia McLaughlin

The departing spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, who stated that international visitors who came to the United States legally would have nothing to worry about.

Daniel

A restaurant worker originally from Mexico City who is in the United States legally but expressed fear of deportation and said he would not attend the World Cup regardless of his legal status.

Michael LoBue

The owner of Caffè Roma, a small Italian coffee shop near the MetLife Stadium, who is expecting more business during the World Cup and does not believe there will be any problems.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to cause chaos, that's what I think.”

— Nellie Pou, Congresswoman (New York Times)

“What makes someone a target for immigration enforcement is whether or not they are illegally in the U.S. — full stop. Speculation to the contrary is ill-informed.”

— Tricia McLaughlin, Departing spokesperson, Department of Homeland Security (New York Times)

“We show all the soccer games on the TVs here, and a lot of my customers love it. I don't think there will be any problems.”

— Michael LoBue, Owner, Caffè Roma (New York Times)

“My concern is that they won't come. And if they don't come, that will be a problem, not only for my district but for our country.”

— Nellie Pou, Congresswoman (New York Times)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.