ICE to Play 'Key Part' in 2026 World Cup Security, Raising Concerns

U.S. immigration agency's role in tournament security questioned by Congress

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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With four months until the start of the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, security concerns have emerged surrounding the role of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. During a Congressional hearing, ICE Director Todd Lyons stated that the agency, particularly its National Security Investigations division, will be a 'key part' of the security system for the tournament. However, Representative Nellie Pou expressed concern that the presence of ICE agents could create fear among fans and deter attendance due to the potential for unjust arrests or expulsions.

Why it matters

The debate highlights a tension between security measures and the potential for those measures to create a climate of fear, particularly within immigrant communities. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, there will likely be continued scrutiny of ICE's role and its ability to balance security concerns with the need to foster a welcoming environment for all attendees.

The details

During a hearing in the House of Representatives, ICE Director Todd Lyons affirmed that the agency will play a significant role in ensuring the safety of all attendees at the World Cup in the United States. However, Representative Nellie Pou expressed concern that the presence of ICE agents could be detrimental to the World Cup, creating fear among attendees and potentially deterring fans from attending the event.

  • The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin in four months.
  • The Congressional hearing where ICE's role was discussed took place on February 11, 2026.

The players

Todd Lyons

The acting director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.

Nellie Pou

The representative for New Jersey's ninth district, who questioned Lyons about ICE's planned presence at the World Cup.

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What they’re saying

“The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), particularly National Security Investigations, is a key part of the World Cup security system. We are dedicated to securing that operation and guaranteeing the safety of all participants and visitors.”

— Todd Lyons, Acting Director, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) (The Athletic)

“Do you realize that if fans feel they are going to be unjustly arrested and expelled, that will harm the whole process? I hope you realize that.”

— Nellie Pou, Representative, New Jersey's 9th District (The Athletic)

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

The debate over ICE's role in the 2026 World Cup security highlights the delicate balance between ensuring public safety and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for all attendees. As the event approaches, there will likely be continued scrutiny of ICE's plans and their ability to address security concerns without creating a climate of fear, particularly within immigrant communities.