Washington D.C. – The United States government is preparing to conduct raids on teams participating in the 2026 FIFA world Cup, focusing on squads from Central and Latin American nations, according to statements made by a White House official.The planned actions are intended to counter narcotics smuggling and other illicit activities.
The move,spearheaded by Andrew Giuliani,leader of the White House’s World Cup task force,signals a heightened security posture as the U.S.prepares to co-host the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico. With an anticipated 5-7 million visitors, the administration is prioritizing the safety of American citizens and implementing strict enforcement measures.This growth underscores the intersection of international sporting events and national security concerns, raising questions about the balance between welcoming global participation and safeguarding domestic interests.
Giuliani indicated that teams from Haiti and Iran will face notably close scrutiny, potentially facing entry restrictions should their national teams qualify. Both countries are currently subject to U.S. entry bans, with the government aiming to minimize the risk of illegal immigration and potential criminal or terrorist activity.
“So far, President Trump‘s priority is to make American citizens safer,” Giuliani emphasized.
The raids will be carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), targeting teams suspected of involvement in illegal activities. The U.S. government maintains a firm stance against relaxing existing policies, despite the logistical complexities of hosting a major international event.
