My first memories of the FIFA World Cup go far back to 1978, a year since I had made Argentina my new home. Argentina defeated the Netherlands 3-1 in extra time in the finals. Coach Menotti, Forward Kempes and the Argentinian National Soccer Team became instant national heroes. I had no idea a soccer game could bring a nation and its people together so intensely and joyously celebrating everywhere, at homes and the streets, during times of political and social unrest. FIFA World Cup 2026 is not just any tournament. Three countries will be hosting for the first time, and forty-eight national teams will be competing. Six million fans are expected to attend the games in the U.S.  

What's happening as we come closer to FIFA?

For the FIFA World Cup 2026, Houston is projected to welcome half a million visitors hosting seven matches at NRG Stadium between June 14 and July 4, 2026, featuring a Round of 32 on June 29 and a Round of 16 on July 4. Additionally, the FIFA Fan Festival Houston will take place east of downtown near Shell Energy Stadium from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The four-block venue at 2301 Dallas Street will feature massive screens for all the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, global food, and live music. Locals, visitors, and vendors will swarm the streets to participate in the festivities. Presence of law and immigration enforcement, including ICE and scammers posing as immigration agents, will increase during these large events. 

Our immigrant community is experiencing unprecedented, unlawful, and indiscriminate enforcement. American Immigration Council reports that in December 2025, ICE awarded contracts to private companies which provide skip tracing services nationwide using government data, online research and AI assisted surveillance systems targeting more than one million non-citizens. This could add to more raids, arrests, and removals of non-citizens.

What can be done to prepare?

Below are some tips to stay safe as a non-citizen in the U.S.

  1. Be aware of where high-traffic and crowded tourist areas will be.
  2. Exercise caution and avoid large event venues as best you can.
  3. Do not sell food or souvenirs on the streets without appropriate permits
  4. Consider using trusted private transport instead of public transportation.

Safety planning is as important as ever. As such, it is vital to have a family preparedness plan in place. First, it is recommended that you learn about your immigration options and know your rights. Make a childcare plan, talk to your children about it, ensure your children have passports, and decide who can care for your children if you are unable to. Share your full name, home country, date of birth, and A number with your family and emergency contacts. Confirm they know how to find you if you are detained by ICE. For more information about creating a family preparedness plan, call the Immigrant Resource Hotline at 833-468-4664, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm; or go to Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, Family Preparedness Plan.  We have also provided some resources below so you can learn more.

 

Be ready to roar that GOOOOOOOOOOL for your favorite team, joined by your loved ones at a safe place with an ironclad family preparedness plan on hand!  

Resources

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