The Mexico men’s national soccer team has long been a source of pride for fans in Los Angeles, regularly filling stadiums and creating vibrant atmospheres. However, the dynamics dramatically shifted amid the backdrop of the Trump administration’s federal immigration sweeps, which have left many supporters uneasy about attending matches.
On June 14, 2023, Mexico faced the Dominican Republic in the CONCACAF Gold Cup at SoFi Stadium. With an attendance of 54,309, this figure was considerably lower than the average of 63,760 over the previous year. While excitement typically fills the stands, this game was marked by an unusual and palpable tension that altered the game day experience for many attendees.
Paco Rubén, founder of Cielito Lindo, one of the team’s major supporters’ groups, chose not to attend the match in solidarity with those impacted by the immigration raids occurring in Los Angeles. He expressed that many members of their community were either attending protests or staying home out of fear. This sentiment was echoed by several fans who opted out of attending games, adversely affecting ticket sales and match-day festivities, which usually foster a strong community spirit.
The plight of particularly vulnerable fans hung in the air, punctuated by the silence of a normally boisterous stadium. Highlights from the day included deteriorated ticket prices and a despondent atmosphere, termed as ‘cold’ by those who did attend, showcasing the emotional weight of ongoing immigration enforcement.
Even the team’s management seemed distant from the turmoil. When questioned about the atmosphere surrounding the game, manager Javier Aguirre remarked, “I’m not a spokesperson for Mexicans. I’m the coach of the Mexican national team.” A lack of empathy from team leadership only deepened the discontent among supporters who felt abandoned at such a crucial moment.
With the upcoming 2026 World Cup looming, the fear surrounding ICE raids might hinder the attendance at future national games, thereby threatening the passionate support the Mexican team has historically enjoyed. As these issues unfold, supporters like those in the Cielito Lindo group continue to carry the emotional burden of navigating their love for the team while facing the harsh realities of their immigration status under Trump’s administration.
Despite the challenges, fans continue to express hope, wishing for a brighter future free of fear, as they look forward to the World Cup, a significant event for the Mexican national soccer team, which promises excitement yet remains tinged with anxiety amid ongoing immigration concerns.