A highly anticipated soccer match between Argentina and Puerto Rico has been moved from Chicago to Florida due to ongoing immigration enforcement activities in the city. Chicago Park District spokesman Luca Serra confirmed on Wednesday that the match, initially set for October 13 at Soldier Field, will now take place at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, notably the home of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi and Inter Miami.
Serra stated, “Yes, confirming that the Argentina against Puerto Rico match has been canceled in Chicago.” The promoter opted for this change citing low ticket sales as a primary reason. Despite the move, no formal announcement has been released by the promoter.
An executive from the Argentine Football Association, speaking anonymously, pointed to the escalated situation in Chicago, where recent immigration crackdowns have led to the arrests of over 1,000 immigrants in the area. This crackdown has been fueled by the Trump administration’s decision to deploy National Guard troops in a bid to increase deportations.
Argentina, the current World Cup champion, is set to engage with Venezuela in a separate friendly match on Friday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Messi has been called up to participate in both matches, which are critical to Argentina’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
The relocation of the match highlights the intersection of sports and socio-political issues, but it also creates an opportunity for fans in Florida to witness top-tier international soccer featuring one of the world’s best players.