ICE Absent from World Cup Matches

United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will not be present at World Cup matches in the U.S. this summer, according to assurances received by the Miami host committee. Rodney Barreto, co-chair of the Miami host committee, stated on Thursday that Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed ICE would not conduct enforcement activities at the event.

This decision follows increased ICE enforcement raids since the beginning of Donald Trump's second presidential term, which has generated political debate within the U.S. The Miami host committee sought these assurances to ensure a smooth experience for attendees and to avoid potential disruptions related to immigration enforcement.

Barreto also indicated that the federal government would undertake significant efforts to process passports and facilitate orderly entry for international visitors. The host committee is also addressing lessons learned from past events, such as the 2024 Copa America championship game in Miami, where security perimeters were breached, causing injuries and delays.