FIFA is reportedly considering a request for United States President Donald Trump to pause ICE raids during the upcoming World Cup in North America, as discussed by FIFA's leadership. This information comes from a report by The Athletic, which indicates that FIFA President Gianni Infantino is open to making a formal appeal to Trump regarding the matter.

Concerns Over ICE Presence

Infantino's potential request aims to reduce ICE's involvement during the World Cup, which is set to take place from June 11 to July 19. The report does not clarify whether Infantino has officially made the request or how the Trump administration would respond. Under Trump's second term, ICE has conducted numerous raids across U.S. cities, aligning with the President's campaign promise of mass deportation ahead of the 2024 election. These operations have sparked protests and have been linked to violent incidents, including the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis earlier this year.

FIFA's Strategy and Congressional Concerns

Acting ICE director Todd Lyons has stated that agents will be involved in security for the World Cup, which will feature 48 teams, making it the largest tournament in FIFA history. However, members of Congress have expressed concerns that ICE's presence could lead to immigration enforcement actions during the event. Workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where the U.S. team will play two group-stage matches, have even threatened to strike over fears related to ICE's activities.

Initially, FIFA believed that limiting ICE operations to the 11 American cities hosting matches would be sufficient. However, with teams establishing base camps in various locations across the country, FIFA is now seeking a complete suspension of all ICE raids throughout the tournament. The relationship between Trump and Infantino, which has been strengthened by FIFA's office in Trump Tower and the awarding of the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize to the President, could play a role in the success of this request.