Artists From 10 US World Cup Cities Launch Anti-ICE Poster Campaign as 66% Oppose Agents at Matches
Updated
Updated · Art Newspaper · Jun 9
Artists From 10 US World Cup Cities Launch Anti-ICE Poster Campaign as 66% Oppose Agents at Matches
3 articles · Updated · Art Newspaper · Jun 9
Summary
Artists from 10 of the 11 US host cities have released free downloadable posters under the “No Ice in the Cup” campaign to protest any ICE presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The initiative, launched on 6 May by the Horizons Project, aims to use locally themed artwork to mobilize fans and defend immigrant communities expected to attend matches across the US, Canada and Mexico.
A 4 June Washington Post-University of Maryland poll found nearly two thirds of Americans oppose ICE agents at World Cup stadiums, while more than 120 civil society groups issued a 23 April travel warning over detention and deportation risks.
The backlash has grown after violent ICE raids and deaths linked to operations including Minneapolis, and hotel groups have already cited detention fears as a factor behind weaker-than-expected bookings in host cities.
Federal officials say ICE will not conduct enforcement during the tournament in Los Angeles, but organizers argue the World Cup fight could shape resistance to any future ICE deployment at 2026 midterm polling places.
Will fears of immigration raids cost World Cup host cities more than the tournament brings in?
With the World Cup starting, can its unifying spirit overcome fan fears of immigration raids?
"No ICE in the Cup": Labor Unions, Human Rights, and the Fight Over Immigration Enforcement at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Overview
The "No ICE in the Cup" campaign is a growing movement opposing the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Rooted in earlier American activist efforts that used humor and soccer themes to protest authoritarian actions, the campaign brings together artists, labor unions, and community organizers. Their goal is to empower people, create safe spaces, and protect public joy, while building a broad coalition for inclusive and secure events. By connecting art, activism, and labor action, the campaign highlights concerns about human rights and seeks to ensure the World Cup is welcoming for all.