Unrest in US raises doubts over 2026 World Cup preparations
Saif Qawasmeh - United States is witnessing a wave of protests in major cities, including Los Angeles and New York, following federal immigration raids targeting undocumented migrants.
The unrest has sparked domestic controversy and international concern as the country prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Raids and Unrest Trigger Backlash
Protests began on June 6 after US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted raids in areas such as Westlake in Los Angeles, arresting 44 people. The raids prompted large-scale demonstrations across the city. In response, police deployed tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds, and a state of emergency was declared in some areas.
Approximately 700 Marines and 4,000 National Guard troops were deployed in Los Angeles, with authorization to detain individuals until authorities could carry out arrests.
Read more: Trump threatens nationwide troop deployment as protests spread
Local and Federal Reactions
The deployment of military forces drew sharp criticism from local officials. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stated she would contact President Trump to request a halt to the raids and instead focus on World Cup preparations. California Governor Gavin Newsom described the military deployment as “an attack on democracy.”
Impact on World Cup 2026 Preparations
As the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, draws near, concerns are mounting over how ongoing unrest may impact the country’s readiness to host the global event.
Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, have condemned the use of excessive force against protesters and urged FIFA to pressure US authorities to uphold human rights during the tournament.
International Repercussions
Internationally, China has advised its citizens to avoid areas affected by the protests, while several European countries expressed concern that the unrest could delay US visa processing, potentially affecting fans and teams traveling for the tournament, now less than a year away.
Read more: Trump won't allow “mob rule in America,” White House says
Calls for Stability
FIFA and organizing bodies continue to call for the swift restoration of order to ensure the protection of rights and smooth preparations for the tournament. These calls emphasize the importance of resolving domestic issues to maintain organizational readiness.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, in a statement last month after meeting with President Donald Trump, expressed confidence that the US would offer a warm welcome to the world during the 2026 World Cup and the upcoming Club World Cup, scheduled from June 14 to July 13 this year.
Alina Hudak, head of the local organizing committee in Miami, told Reuters that she has been in contact with the local consular corps to address any concerns and provide the necessary support to ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly.
“My responsibility is to ensure the team is ready, that the situation is safe, and that we're coordinating logistics with all security agencies,” Hudak said. “We've done everything possible to prepare the public transportation system for the expected number of visitors.”
She added, “What happens beyond that is something we monitor closely, but frankly, it's not something I have control over.”
