Immigrants build and help sustain the 2026 FIFA World Cup: they are key to keeping the ball rolling on infrastructure projects, hotels, and airports in the U.S.

As the United States prepares for the ball to roll during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a reality emerges behind the stadiums, hotels, and airports: a large part of the tournament depends on the labor of immigrant workers, including thousands who today live in fear of deportation. From construction workers who are remodeling infrastructure to hotel employees, cooks, cleaners, drivers, and logistics staff, an entire machine that moves millions of tourists rests on industries where immigrant labor is essential. All of this is happening amid a more aggressive immigration policy, with more raids, surveillance, and pressure.