Manny Mizael, a passionate soccer supporter who moved from Brazil to Boston, is feeling the strain of new immigration policies as he organizes events for Flamengo, one of Brazil's top teams. With the Club World Cup approaching, anxieties have grown among fans, many of whom lack legal status.
In February, Mizael's supporters club canceled a watch party, fearing it could attract immigration raids. “People are being snatched off the streets,” he said. The sentiment has swept through fan groups, causing them to weigh the risks of celebrating their favorite teams. As the World Cup, anticipated to draw 6.5 million fans, approaches, concerns continue to rise about how these policies will affect the event.
Fans traditionally invest significant resources in attending the World Cup. However, current immigration climate means many may back out, reshaping the event's experience and potentially lowering attendance. The ripple effect of the Trump administration's policies is significantly felt within the soccer community, raising questions about the culture of support amid fear and uncertainty.
In February, Mizael's supporters club canceled a watch party, fearing it could attract immigration raids. “People are being snatched off the streets,” he said. The sentiment has swept through fan groups, causing them to weigh the risks of celebrating their favorite teams. As the World Cup, anticipated to draw 6.5 million fans, approaches, concerns continue to rise about how these policies will affect the event.
Fans traditionally invest significant resources in attending the World Cup. However, current immigration climate means many may back out, reshaping the event's experience and potentially lowering attendance. The ripple effect of the Trump administration's policies is significantly felt within the soccer community, raising questions about the culture of support amid fear and uncertainty.
