Amid the World Cup's start, immigrant fans and workers in the US express fears of detention by ICE. Despite assurances from authorities, past incidents and ongoing anxieties persist for those attending matches.

The 2026 World Cup kicks off today in Mexico City, but for some, FIFA matches carry painful memories. FRANCE 24 spoke to an immigrant family whose father was detained by ICE at a football match at the MetLife stadium in New Jersey, where eight World Cup fixtures are set to take place over the coming month. The New Jersey State Police has insisted that immigrant football fans are safe to attend matches, but others have urged caution.