As Miami gears up to welcome the world for the FIFA Club World Cup, controversy is brewing over the planned involvement of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in security efforts. While federal and local officials emphasize that CBP’s role is standard for large international events, many in Miami’s immigrant-rich communities are voicing concern about the optics and potential impact of immigration agents at a global sporting event.
Officials say CBP’s participation — which includes duties like cargo screening, crowd safety, and emergency preparedness — mirrors their presence at Super Bowls and political conventions. But in today’s climate of increased immigration enforcement and highly publicized ICE raids, the presence of CBP agents at a tournament beloved by many immigrants feels different.
A now-deleted Facebook post from CBP that mentioned agents would be “suited and booted” for the event’s opening matches only intensified the unease. Immigrant rights advocates fear that even if enforcement isn’t part of CBP’s official duties during the tournament, their visible presence could intimidate undocumented individuals or those in mixed-status families — discouraging attendance and celebration.
“We’ve already heard from families who’ve decided to skip the games or cancel watch parties,” said one local organizer. “There’s real fear that this could be used as a cover for enforcement or surveillance.”
In response to the backlash, FIFA President Gianni Infantino attempted to reassure fans, saying, “We’re confident this will be a safe and welcoming tournament. I have no worries.” Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that the city’s priority is to ensure hospitality and public safety, not immigration enforcement.
CBP has since clarified that no immigration enforcement activity will take place inside or outside stadiums during the matches. Still, skepticism remains.
“This may be routine for government agencies, but the impact on our community is anything but routine,” said a spokesperson for a Miami-based immigrant advocacy group. “People want to enjoy the game without fear.”
As kickoff approaches, all eyes are on how this situation unfolds — and whether the promises of a “welcoming tournament” will be enough to ease the growing apprehension among many of the very fans who make Miami’s soccer culture so vibrant.
