Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are not welcome in the city during the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup.
The stance signals a potential diplomatic and legal friction point between a major North American host city and U.S. federal law enforcement during a global event.
Chow backed a city council motion intended to limit the powers of ICE agents while the tournament takes place in Toronto [2]. The mayor said that the presence of these agents is liable to create fear during a time when the city wants to welcome the world and ensure that everyone feels safe [3].
In an interview with Al Jazeera English, Chow said, "US immigration agents are not welcome in my city" [4]. She said, "No ICE in Toronto" [5].
The mayor's position comes as Toronto prepares for the influx of international visitors. The city has already been managing the logistics of the tournament, including the purchase and resale of thousands [1] of World Cup tickets.
Chow said the goal is to maintain an environment where all attendees feel secure and the city's welcoming atmosphere is not undermined by the presence of foreign immigration enforcement [3].
“"US immigration agents are not welcome in my city."”
This move by the Toronto mayor highlights the tension between municipal sanctuary-style policies and international security cooperation. By attempting to limit the operational capacity of U.S. federal agents, Toronto is prioritizing the perceived safety and inclusivity of its immigrant populations and visitors over standard bilateral law enforcement expectations during a high-profile sporting event.
