Vancouver council to debate ICE presence during World Cup

Vancouver councillors will move a motion on Feb. 26 asking the city to oppose ICE agents performing security duties during the 2026 World Cup; there are no confirmed plans for ICE to operate in Vancouver.

Vancouver city council is preparing to debate whether to oppose U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents operating in the city during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Councillors Pete Fry and Sean Orr will present a motion on Feb. 26 asking council to state opposition to ICE performing security duties at the tournament. There are currently no confirmed plans for ICE to operate in Vancouver, and federal agencies have said Canada retains control over admissibility decisions. Key points: - A motion will be brought to council on Feb. 26 asking the city to oppose ICE agents performing security duties during the 2026 World Cup. - Councillors cited reports that ICE might assist U.S. diplomatic security at other events and expressed concern about reported reductions in agent training. - Canada's Border Services Agency said the federal government is coordinating with U.S. and Mexican partners for the World Cup while maintaining Canadian control over entry decisions, and it has not confirmed whether additional U.S. law-enforcement personnel will be allowed into Canada. Summary: The motion is intended to state the city's position in advance of the tournament and to alert federal authorities. Council will debate the motion on Feb. 26; outcomes and any federal response are undetermined at this time.