The international soccer governing body FIFA is reportedly considering whether to ask President Donald Trump to temporarily pause immigration enforcement operations during the 2026 World Cup, according to reporting cited from The New York Times. The request under discussion would potentially apply to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity throughout the 39-day tournament.

Internal FIFA discussions have centered first on limiting enforcement actions near stadiums in the 11 U.S. host cities. That scope was later expanded in internal deliberations to include surrounding areas, and ultimately a proposal for a nationwide pause during the duration of the event.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reportedly indicated openness to raising the issue directly with Trump as a formal diplomatic request between the two leaders. It remains unclear whether any such request has been made or how the White House would respond.

U.S. immigration enforcement officials have stated that ICE, through Homeland Security Investigations, will play a role in security planning for the tournament. Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons has previously described the agency’s involvement as part of broader efforts to ensure safety at World Cup events.

The potential proposal has drawn attention from labor organizations and members of Congress, who have raised concerns about how immigration enforcement could intersect with event security and fan attendance. Some FIFA member federations have also expressed concern about the impact enforcement actions could have on international supporters traveling to matches.

A White House spokesperson did not directly address the reported discussions but emphasized that the administration’s priority is delivering what it describes as the safest and most secure World Cup in history.

The issue has been building for months, with human rights organizations previously urging FIFA to seek assurances from U.S. authorities limiting immigration enforcement near venues. FIFA officials also reportedly reviewed complaints from earlier tournament events, including concerns raised by fans about the presence of federal agents.

The Department of Homeland Security has denied claims of enforcement operations targeting stadium events, describing such reports as inaccurate and misleading.