US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have said that federal immigration agents will be present at the Club World Cup matches that will be played from Sunday in several cities across the United States.
This measure, which the institutions present as a “habitual” deployment for a major sporting event, has generated even more tension and alarm in much of a population that is stunned by the government’s immigration policy.
“Let them come and go”
On the one hand, there is the fear of going to stadiums of many soccer fans living in the United States who have not managed to regularize their residence, a procedure that can take several years.
On the other hand, the list of people banned from attending matches due to episodes of violence at sporting events in their countries of origin. Finally, there is the government’s premise that no tourist should take advantage of the Club World Cup to stay on U.S. soil without permission.
The welcome sign to enjoy one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year is accompanied in large letters by an invitation from the government to return home and avoid staying in the United Stateslonger than necessary.
“Let the fans come, but when the tournament is over they will have to go back home.”
“Let the fans come. We want them to celebrate. We want them to watch the matches. But when the tournament is over, they will have to go home,” US Vice President JD Vance warned at a press conference where he was sitting alongside Trump, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The memory of the Copa America
Another of the central government’s premises is to avoid the chaos that broke out last summer in the Copa America final between Colombia and Argentina that was played at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
Thousands of fans of both teams skipped the access turnstiles to enter the venue, climbed fences and sneaked through the ventilation ducts of the stadium. Images that called into question the security of U.S. stadiums ahead of hosting massive events. Almost a year later, the stadium is preparing to host the opening match between Inter Miami and Al Ahly.
World Cup and Olympic rehearsal
Security at the Club World Cup will set the tone for two massive events taking place in the United States: the 2026 World Cup, which the US will host alongside Mexico and Canada, and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
The 11 US cities hosting the 2026 World Cup are in a battle with the government to secure $625 million in funding to cover security costs for the tournament.
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