Mexico's President Urges No ICE Raids During Mexico-Dominican Republic Soccer Match

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has made a bold appeal to U.S. authorities, requesting them to hold off on immigration raids during the upcoming Gold Cup soccer match. The match, featuring Mexico's national team against the Dominican Republic, is set for Saturday night at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

Recent ICE operations have seen dozens detained in Los Angeles's bustling fashion district and local Home Depot parking lots, with over 100 individuals affected. Despite the heightened enforcement, Sheinbaum expressed optimism at a news conference, stating, "We don’t believe that there will be any raids if there’s a soccer game. We hope there won’t be any. We call for no action from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement."

Mexico's fixtures in Southern California are notorious for pulling massive crowds, and March's game against Canada saw a turnout of more than 50,000 fans. With the backdrop of President Donald Trump's recent enforcement measures deploying troops following the raids, there is tension looming over the city. Downtown Los Angeles has been a hotspot for protests, ranging from peaceful gatherings to freeway blockades and incendiary acts.

The Mexican national team, prioritizing their safety amidst this volatility, has relocated their accommodations from downtown to Long Beach.

Sheinbaum also emphasized a proactive approach from the Mexican government. "This campaign we are carrying out through the consulates will provide all the information on what to do if detained, as well as ongoing contact with families," she noted, highlighting the consulates' efforts to disseminate guidance to Mexicans facing possible detainment.

With the game just around the corner, Sheinbaum's plea underlines a desire for an uninterrupted celebration of sport, amidst turbulent socio-political circumstances.