Action NC says ICE agents never appeared. CMPD has previously said it does not assist with immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Thousands of soccer fans packed Bank of America Stadium for the Allstate Continental Clásico, an international exhibition match that also served as a sendoff for the U.S. Men’s National Team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Supporters waving flags and wearing team colors filled the stadium, creating a festive atmosphere as fans from a variety of countries gathered to celebrate the sport.
For many attendees, the event represented the growing popularity of soccer in the Carolinas.
“It was very electric,” Kevin Romero, a soccer fan attending the match, said. “I’m happy to be in a state where soccer is now celebrated.”
While much of the focus remained on the action on the field, the event also renewed discussion in Charlotte about immigration enforcement and how it may affect attendance at major international sporting events.
A coalition of local advocacy organizations, including Action NC, Carolina Migrant Network, Jewish Voice for Peace Charlotte, Charlotte Metro Democratic Socialists of America and the Charlotte Housing Justice Coalition, called on local leaders, stadium officials and event organizers to ensure what they described as a safe environment for all fans.
The groups urged organizers and public officials to prevent immigration enforcement activity at stadium events and avoid cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Advocates said their concerns are connected to preparations for future international events in Charlotte.
Romero said he had heard concerns about immigration enforcement surrounding the event and believes the issue has affected some members of the community.
“I think it’s a shame that something like that is being brought up when people are coming from all over the world,” he said.
Romero added that the issue is personal because he has undocumented family members.
“If they’re here to get people who are actually bad, that’s one thing,” Romero said. “But if it’s people who just seem like they don’t belong, I’m not in favor of that.”
Advocates said concerns about immigration enforcement continue to influence how some immigrant communities participate in public events.
“People have been afraid to leave their homes,” Hector, an organizer with Action NC, said. “We want to make sure our community is safe. We’re calling on leaders to support immigrant communities with action, not just words.”
Action NC says ICE agents never appeared. CMPD has previously said it does not assist with immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant.
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