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USA / Haiti: World Cup fans anxious about anti-immigrant ICE

USA / Haiti: World Cup fans anxious about anti-immigrant ICE

Haiti’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has brought joy and pride to Haitians worldwide, marking the nation’s first appearance at the tournament since 1974. Yet many members of the Haitian diaspora in the USA are fearful about attending matches because of growing immigration enforcement under Donald Trump’s administration. Some Haitian supporters, including those with temporary protected status, worry about possible detention or deportation by ICE while travelling to games. Human rights groups have criticised increasingly aggressive immigration tactics and warned that fans, visitors and migrants could face discrimination or mistreatment during the tournament. Concerns are especially strong in cities hosting matches, where large immigrant communities live. Alongside fears over immigration enforcement, many supporters are also discouraged by soaring ticket prices, which have placed the tournament beyond the reach of ordinary families. Despite these anxieties, Haiti’s historic qualification remains a powerful symbol of hope and national unity for many people.