US Immigration Crackdown Intensifies During FIFA World Cup

As the FIFA World Cup nears, the US government is ramping up its immigration enforcement, particularly against undocumented immigrants. Todd Lyons from ICE has indicated that the agency will play a significant role during the tournament, with potential checks at stadiums. Meanwhile, the Iranian football team faces strict entry conditions, allowed only to enter for their match and required to leave immediately after. After much uncertainty, Iranian players have finally received their visas to participate in the World Cup, with their first match scheduled against New Zealand on June 15. This situation highlights the intersection of sports and immigration policy during a major international event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 10, 2026, 10:48 IST

Immigration Enforcement Heightened for World Cup

New York: Since Donald Trump assumed the presidency, there has been a significant increase in actions against undocumented immigrants, leading to numerous deportations. As the FIFA World Cup approaches, set to commence on June 11, reports indicate that the US government is preparing to enhance its efforts to identify, apprehend, and deport undocumented immigrants during the event.

Todd Lyons, the acting director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has indicated that the agency will have a crucial role during the tournament. When questioned about potential raids at stadiums, Andrew Giuliani, who heads the White House World Cup task force, provided a revealing response.

He stated, "The President will not dismiss any measures that ensure the safety of American citizens." This suggests that authorities may conduct checks on attendees at and around stadiums, with the possibility of deporting anyone found to be undocumented.

Iranian Football Team's Strict Entry Conditions

New York: Amid ongoing political tensions, the Iranian football team is preparing to participate in the FIFA World Cup matches in the US. However, they face strict conditions: the team is permitted to enter the US solely for their match and must depart immediately afterward.

Currently, the team is training in Mexico. Iran's ambassador in Mexico, Abolfazl, confirmed, "We will travel to the US in the morning for the match. We must leave the US right after the game concludes." Iran's first match is scheduled against New Zealand in California on June 15.

Iranian Players Granted Visas for World Cup Participation

Washington: The Iranian players have successfully obtained visas to compete in the FIFA World Cup, which begins on June 11. There had been considerable uncertainty regarding their participation due to the ongoing tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel.

However, two US officials have confirmed that the team, currently training in Mexico, has received the required visas to enter the US. Their inaugural match will be against New Zealand in California on June 15.