Two of the world’s biggest soccer events kick off in Southern California this weekend – but excitement is met with unease, as fans and immigrant advocates raise concerns over increased federal enforcement and security at stadiums.
On Saturday, more than 50,000 fans are expected at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood for the CONCACAF Gold Cup opener, where Mexico will face the Dominican Republic. The match comes amid ongoing immigration raids across Los Angeles that have already prompted Mexico’s national team to relocate from its original hotel due to safety concerns.
Just one day later, the FIFA Club World Cup begins at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, with European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Atlético de Madrid squaring off in the first of six scheduled matches at the venue this month.
But even as excitement builds, a now-deleted social media post by U.S. Customs and Border Protection has stirred alarm. “CBP will be suited and booted ready to provide security,” the agency posted, referencing Club World Cup matches. The message was later removed, but not before sparking fears among fans.
Both FIFA and Gold Cup organizers say they’re working with local and federal law enforcement, though Immigration and Customs Enforcement is not officially listed among stadium partners. Still, with National Guard troops deployed throughout the region and a new federal travel ban in effect, the atmosphere has shifted for many longtime soccer supporters.
Human rights groups warn the current climate could depress attendance, especially among Latino and immigrant communities that have long formed the foundation of U.S. soccer fandom. A recent match between Mexico and Switzerland in North Carolina drew only 25,000 fans to a 55,000-seat venue – well below expectations.
Both SoFi Stadium and the Rose Bowl have stated they will follow standard safety protocols. But with the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to bring multiple matches to Southern California, fans and officials alike will be watching closely to see how this weekend unfolds.
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