New York / Los Angeles, June 11, 2025 — As the United States, alongside Canada and Mexico, enters the one-year countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, mounting political tension—particularly President Trump’s recent deployment of Marines and National Guard troops to Los Angeles—has cast a shadow over preparations for the tournament .

Reuters reports that approximately 700 active-duty Marines have been dispatched, supported by National Guard forces, to suppress protests over immigration raids in downtown Los Angeles. California’s Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move as an “unmistakable step toward authoritarianism,” while Democrats filed legal action claiming the deployment violates state sovereignty.

The situation has unsettled host city officials, prompting caution as they prepare for an influx of global fans. A high-profile “year‑to‑go” event at Fox Studio Lot in Hollywood, featuring celebrities and soccer stars, highlighted the looming tournament—but came just a day after the federal troop movement.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has affirmatively stated that “the world will be welcomed” to next year’s expanded 48‑team, 104‑match spectacle. Yet, Human Rights Watch’s Minky Worden has urged FIFA to work with U.S. officials to create safeguards for diverse fan groups, including setting clear benchmarks to guard against “immigration and anti‑human‑rights policies” that could threaten the integrity of the tournament.

Host city executives in Los Angeles, New York‑New Jersey, Miami and beyond have voiced concerns over travel bans, visa delays, and escalating security concerns—warning these could affect fan confidence. FIFA has yet to issue a formal response, although discussions with U.S. authorities are ongoing.

With eight friendly matches planned before the event, U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino confronts both on‑field and off‑field pressures amid tournament preparations.

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