Background: Recent Immigration Raids in Los Angeles
In early June 2025, Los Angeles witnessed a series of high-profile immigration enforcement actions by U.S. authorities, including both Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Raids swept through areas like the city’s Fashion District and Home Depot parking lots, resulting in hundreds of detained migrants. According to reports, nearly 400 arrests were made, with several individuals facing serious charges such as possession of weapons or assaulting police officers.
These enforcement sweeps triggered large-scale protests across Los Angeles. Demonstrators blocked major freeways, set fires, and clashed with authorities. The chaos prompted the deployment of the National Guard and even Marines in a strategy reminiscent of measures taken during the Trump administration’s tenure . California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal response, citing concerns over militarization and impact on public safety.
Sheinbaum Steps In: A Call for Restraint During Gold Cup Events
Against this charged backdrop, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum issued a public appeal on Friday, June 13, urging U.S. immigration authorities to refrain from conducting any enforcement activities during the upcoming Gold Cup match between Mexico and the Dominican Republic. The match was scheduled for Saturday, June 14, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Los Angeles.
During a press conference, Sheinbaum stated:
“We don’t believe that at any soccer match there will be any (immigration) action… we call for none to be taken by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement”.
Her plea emphasizes diplomacy and sensitivity toward the Mexican diaspora in the United States, particularly in immigrant-rich areas of Southern California. She added that Mexican consulates across the U.S. have instituted protocols to assist citizens who may be detained during such events.
The Flashpoint: CBP’s “Suited and Booted” Announcement
Tensions around the Gold Cup were exacerbated by a CBP social media post about massive security plans. The agency had announced it would be “suited and booted” at the opening rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup—a precursor event to the 2026 World Cup. While CBP later deleted the post, it heightened fears that sporting venues could bring immigration action.
CBP claimed its presence at major sporting events is routine and geared toward safety, not immigration enforcement. They specifically said their mission remained the same across high-profile events like the Super Bowl and Club World Cup, distancing their activity from enforcement tactics.
Still, critics—such as former DHS official Tom Warrick—warned that militaristic messaging could instill fear among immigrant communities. His assessment framed the announcement as potentially intimidating rather than reassuring.
Sheinbaum’s Diplomacy: Promoting Peace and Solidarity
Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico pursues a stance of peace and cooperation. Addressing images circulating of protesters waving Mexican flags during Los Angeles demonstrations, she cautioned they might be provocations intended to escalate tension. She reiterated:
“Mexico will always promote peace,” asserting that Mexican nationals living in the U.S. are “peace‑seeking and hardworking” —not troublemakers.
Just days earlier, Sheinbaum had denounced violent incidents tied to immigration raids, urging calm and respectful protest among the diaspora. She also faced accusations from U.S. officials of instigating unrest—a charge she categorically denied, calling such allegations “absolutely false” .
Security and Logistics: Adapting to Ongoing Unrest
Due to safety concerns amid the unrest, members of Mexico’s national team reportedly relocated hotels from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach. Meanwhile, SoFi Stadium enforced strict security protocols including AI-enhanced scanners, transparent bags, and bag inspections to maintain a controlled environment.
Concacaf, the governing body of the Gold Cup, confirmed that it was closely coordinating with local agencies to ensure safety and limit disruptions on match day.
What Happens Next: Continued Diplomacy and Future Matches
After Sunday’s match in Inglewood, Mexico’s squad travels to Arlington, Texas, and then Las Vegas, Nevada—both cities with large immigrant communities and high attendance expected.As the Gold Cup progresses, U.S. and Mexican authorities face the challenge of balancing public safety, diplomatic goodwill, and immigrant outreach.
Mexico’s government appears committed to robust consular support, pledging resources to help detained Mexican nationals and ensure due process. Diplomatic diplomacy continues.
Why This Matters: Implications on Multiple Fronts
Diplomatic Stakes: Sheinbaum’s public appeal reflects a broader strategy to protect Mexican citizens abroad without escalating conflict. Her cautious tone suggests Mexico is ready for dialogue but not confrontation.
Domestic U.S. Fallout: The intensive ICE and CBP raids have drawn widespread criticism from state and city officials. California leaders, including Governor Newsom, view them as heavy-handed and counterproductive .
Sports as Social Catalyst: Major events like the Gold Cup spotlight how sports and immigration collide. The presence or absence of enforcement at stadiums could set precedents for policing policies at future events—including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Diaspora Response: Mexican and immigrant communities are closely watching. The actions of both consulates and local authorities will influence trust in public institutions and civic cooperation.
Outlook and Analysis
Sheinbaum’s call for restraint comes at a critical diplomatic juncture. With two major Gold Cup matches in cities deeply affected by immigration policy, U.S. authorities must navigate between law enforcement and social unrest. Mexico’s coordinated consular support shows a proactive stance, but tensions remain.
Looking ahead, three key dynamics will shape outcomes:
- ICE/CBP enforcement strategy during subsequent matches—whether they respect political sensitivity around mass gatherings.
- Local government posture, as state and city officials like Gavin Newsom continue to challenge federal action when it affects community safety.
- Media and public response, including potential repeat protests if raids resurface during soccer matches.
Regardless of on-field results, this intersection of football, policy, and diplomacy will test U.S.-Mexico relations and broader approaches to immigration amid high-visibility events.
