Tension is building ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as hospitality workers at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium warn they could down tools if US immigration agents are deployed during matches.

cbinews.tv reports that workers at the iconic SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles are threatening to strike ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup over fears surrounding the possible presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during the tournament.

The UNITE HERE Local 11 union, which represents around 2,000 hospitality workers at the stadium, says staff are deeply worried that federal immigration enforcement could create a hostile and fearful atmosphere for both workers and football fans.

The stadium — set to be temporarily renamed Los Angeles Stadium during the World Cup — will host eight matches, including the United States’ opening game on June 12.

Speaking during a protest outside the venue, stadium cook Isaac Martinez insisted that workers should not have to fear going to work or being detained on their way home.

“ICE should have no role in these games,” Martinez said, adding that workers are prepared to strike if no agreement is reached.

Many employees' working food and beverage concessions say the possible deployment of ICE officers would overshadow what should be a global celebration of football.

The concerns come amid continuing criticism of ICE under President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, with human rights groups accusing the agency of heavy-handed tactics during raids across several US cities.

Workers have also expressed concern over FIFA’s accreditation requirements, which involve submitting personal information before the tournament begins across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

Protesters carrying signs reading “Kick ICE Out of the World Cup” also received backing from California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer.

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