Protests Raise Concerns Before Gold Cup Opener
As the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup approaches its opening match on June 14 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, ongoing protests in the city have sparked concerns among organizers. Concacaf, the governing body for soccer in North and Central America and the Caribbean, stated on Wednesday that it is in 'close and ongoing communication' with local authorities to monitor the evolving situation. The protests, now in their fifth day as of June 11, are tied to nationwide unrest over immigration raids ordered by President Donald Trump, with hundreds of arrests reported in Los Angeles alone.
The opening match, featuring Mexico against the Dominican Republic, is a significant event at the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. However, the disturbances have led to heightened security measures, including the Mexican national team changing hotels due to safety concerns. This development has added a layer of complexity to the preparations for one of the region's most anticipated soccer tournaments.
Impact on Teams and Fans Amid Unrest
The unrest in Los Angeles has not only affected team logistics but also raised alarms among fan groups and rights organizations. Reports indicate that fans and advocacy groups have expressed worries about potential police violence, travel bans, and threats to immigrant communities during this period of heightened tension. The Football Supporters Europe (FSE) group has voiced 'deep concern' over the situation, particularly as the city is also set to host FIFA Club World Cup matches starting June 15 at Pasadena's Rose Bowl.
Concacaf's proactive approach in liaising with local officials aims to ensure the safety of players, staff, and spectators attending the Gold Cup opener. With 16 national teams competing in the tournament, including 44 MLS players from 20 different clubs, the event is a major draw for soccer enthusiasts across the region. The organization remains focused on delivering a successful start to the tournament despite the challenging circumstances.
Broader Implications for Soccer Events in L.A.
Beyond the Gold Cup, the protests have cast a shadow over other upcoming soccer events in Los Angeles. The city is scheduled to host six FIFA Club World Cup matches, beginning with Paris St-Germain versus Atletico Madrid on June 15. Questions have arisen about the potential presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at these games, especially after border patrol confirmed their involvement at the Club World Cup opener in Miami, raising further concerns among attendees and organizers.
As the situation unfolds, Concacaf continues to prioritize safety and coordination with local authorities to navigate the challenges posed by the protests. The Gold Cup, culminating in a final on July 6 at NRG Stadium in Houston, remains a key fixture in the regional soccer calendar, and organizers are determined to mitigate any disruptions caused by the ongoing unrest in Los Angeles. With the eyes of the soccer world on SoFi Stadium this weekend, the hope is for a secure and celebratory start to the tournament.