FIFA World Cup 2026 signage is displayed at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on June 1, 2026.
Jae C. Hong/AP
Jae C. Hong/AP
As the FIFA World Cup approaches, potential disruptions loom over the event. Workers at SoFi Stadium, the venue for the first U.S. match, might strike due to ongoing contract disputes.
The employees, represented by UNITE HERE Local 11, have voted overwhelmingly—96% in favor—to authorize a strike. This group includes various service workers like cashiers and cooks, who are pressing for better wages and job security. The union stated, “Workers could walk off the job at any moment if their demands are not met,” highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Among the workers’ primary concerns is the presence of federal immigration officers at the games, especially in light of the Trump administration’s stringent immigration policies. UNITE HERE Local 11 has requested that FIFA ensure that neither U.S. Immigration nor Border Patrol will be involved in the event.
Yolanda Fierro, one of the union members employed at SoFi, emphasized her readiness to strike if necessary. “Fans from around the world will come expecting an unforgettable event, and we take pride in making that happen,” Fierro asserted. “But no worker should have to fear being separated from their family or worry about dangerous ICE activity while simply doing their job.”
Negotiations involving the union, Legends Global (who manage SoFi’s hospitality), and FIFA will resume on Monday. The stadium is set to host the U.S. men’s team against Paraguay on June 12.
Kurt Petersen, co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11, described the negotiation process to the Associated Press as “glacial,” though there has been progress on wage hikes for certain roles.
FIFA and Legends Global have yet to comment on the developments but the latter expressed its commitment to offering an exceptional experience for fans.
LA County Sheriff Robert Luna mentioned that federal agents will be present to ensure security but not for immigration enforcement, although he noted this could change.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin clarified on Fox News that the presence of ICE and other agencies would focus on counter-terrorism rather than immigration enforcement.
DHS Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis reiterated the department’s aim to secure the event, stating it would be done “in line with federal law and the U.S. Constitution,” ensuring a secure and memorable experience for attendees.
Meanwhile, an ICE social media post highlighted the agency’s role in tackling human trafficking and counterfeit issues during the World Cup, which spans 78 matches across the United States starting June 11.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
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