Gianni Infantino Considers Appeal to Trump Amidst World Cup Immigration Concerns
Recent reports from The Athletic indicate that FIFA President Gianni Infantino is open to a proposal to request a moratorium on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This comes as concerns mount over potential immigration crackdowns targeting international attendees.
Pressure Mounts on FIFA to Address Immigration Fears
FIFA, the governing body of international football, has faced increasing pressure to proactively address anxieties surrounding the possibility of heightened immigration enforcement during the tournament. The upcoming World Cup, kicking off on June 11th, is expected to draw a massive international audience, raising fears that visitors could be targeted by US immigration authorities.
The Proposed Moratorium and White House Response
The proposal reportedly involves a request for a “full moratorium on ICE raids across the United States” throughout the duration of the World Cup. While the White House declined to comment on specific negotiations with FIFA leadership, spokesperson Davis Ingle emphasized the tournament’s potential benefits for the US, stating it will generate “billions of dollars of economic impact and bring hundreds of thousands of jobs.”
Previous Hints of ICE Presence at World Cup Events
However, the Trump administration has previously signaled a potential presence of immigration agencies like ICE at World Cup matches. During a World Cup task force meeting last May, Vice President JD Vance indicated that the government would expect all attendees to adhere to the terms of their visas. ICE acting Director Todd Lyons confirmed in February that his agency would be involved in security operations for the World Cup, declining to commit to pausing operations during the event. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement plays a key role in border security.
Concerns Stem from Past Enforcement Actions
These concerns are fueled by past enforcement actions under the Trump administration. Reports have surfaced of ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents being present at matches during the FIFA Club World Cup held in the US last year. Critics point to past incidents, including a violent crackdown in Minnesota overseen by former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, which resulted in the deaths of US citizens and allegations of human rights abuses.
Infantino’s Relationship with Trump and Potential PR Benefits
FIFA executives reportedly believe that securing an immigration moratorium could serve as a positive public relations opportunity for the Trump administration. They also hope that Gianni Infantino’s established relationship with Trump will facilitate a favorable outcome. Infantino has frequently been seen with Trump at public events, including a recent UFC fight in Miami, and was awarded the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize by Trump in December – a decision that drew significant criticism and accusations of seeking favour.
Critics Question FIFA’s Neutrality
The award of the FIFA Peace Prize to Trump prompted a complaint to FIFA’s ethics committee, alleging a breach of the organization’s duty of neutrality. Critics argue that Infantino’s actions are aimed at ingratiating himself with the US president. The situation highlights the complex intersection of sports, politics, and immigration policy as the 2026 World Cup approaches.
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