A labour dispute is brewing ahead of the FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles, as a major workers’ union has called on football’s governing body to bar immigration enforcement agents from tournament venues—warning that failure to act could trigger a strike.
Unite Here Local 11, representing about 2,000 food service workers at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, made the demand on Monday, citing growing fears among workers over the potential involvement of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the global event.
Workers demand safety guarantees
The union is seeking a public commitment from FIFA and stadium owner Kroenke Sports & Entertainment that ICE and Border Patrol agents will not be involved in World Cup operations.
Union leaders argue that the presence of immigration enforcement could create fear among workers and fans, particularly in a diverse city like Los Angeles.
Their concerns follow remarks by ICE’s acting director, Todd Lyons, who indicated the agency would play a “key part” during the tournament—a statement that has heightened tensions.
Contract dispute, strike threat
Beyond immigration concerns, the workers say they are still operating without a labour contract as the World Cup approaches, raising broader issues about job security and working conditions.
The union warned that failure to address its demands—including protections for union jobs and limits on automation—could lead to industrial action during the tournament.
Housing and cost-of-living concerns
The dispute also extends to wider economic pressures in Los Angeles, with the union calling for measures to support affordable housing for hospitality workers.
Proposals include the creation of a workforce housing fund, tighter controls on short-term rentals, and tax measures to support low-income and immigrant families.
FIFA under pressure
Union leaders criticised FIFA for failing to engage despite repeated requests for dialogue since Los Angeles was confirmed as a host city.
“FIFA and its corporate sponsors will make billions while ignoring the workers who make the event possible,” said Kurt Petersen, co-president of the union.
High-stakes tournament
Los Angeles is set to host eight World Cup matches at the SoFi Stadium—temporarily renamed Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament due to sponsorship rules—with the first match scheduled for June 12 between the United States and Paraguay.
With the global spotlight looming, the dispute adds a new layer of pressure on FIFA and local organisers to address labour and social concerns before kickoff.
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