Concerns are mounting ahead of Mexico’s Gold Cup match against the Dominican Republic scheduled for this weekend in Los Angeles due to ongoing protests in the city. The demonstrations, which have now entered their fifth day, are sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration raids, resulting in hundreds of arrests.
Concacaf, the organizing body for football in North and Central America and the Caribbean, is maintaining “close and ongoing communication” with local authorities regarding the situation as they prepare for the opening match at Sofi Stadium on Saturday. In light of security considerations, the Mexico national team has reportedly changed hotels.
The timing of the match coincides with another significant event in the city, as Los Angeles will also host the first of six FIFA Club World Cup matches at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl, featuring Paris Saint-Germain against Atletico Madrid.
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) has expressed its concerns regarding the safety of fans and participants amidst the unrest. In response, Concacaf has emphasized that the safety and well-being of all involved is their top priority. They are committed to closely monitoring the situation and are determined to ensure a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment during the tournament.
The proactive measures taken by Concacaf and the attention to safety reflect not only the seriousness of the situation but also the commitment to upholding the spirit of sportsmanship and community engagement even in challenging times.