The NFL has confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement will not conduct immigration enforcement operations at the Super Bowl, ending days of public speculation and mounting pressure on the league. The clarification came ahead of Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, following worries about the presence of federal agents at the game.
“There are no planned ICE or immigration enforcement operations that are scheduled around the Super Bowl or any of the Super Bowl-related events,” NFL chief of security Cathy Lanier said, speaking on behalf of the league’s security leadership. Her comments are the first on-the-record confirmation from the NFL after growing calls for transparency. A California sheriff also recently refused to participate in ICE business.
Lanier’s statement aligned with earlier reporting by The Washington Post, which confirmed that ICE would not be carrying out immigration actions connected to the Super Bowl. Her remarks aimed to provide clarity amid fears that fans, workers, or residents could be targeted during one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.
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DHS Might Still Be Active During Super Bowl LX
The league had faced increasing pressure to clarify the role of federal agents at Levi’s Stadium, particularly after it came out that personnel from the Department of Homeland Security would still be present. While the NFL did not affirm or deny that federal authorities would be involved in security planning as of yet, the denial of immigration enforcement activity gives some clarity.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the controversy as well, saying he believes artists and performers understand the global platform the Super Bowl provides. He described the event as an opportunity to unite people rather than divide them, reinforcing the league’s desire to keep the focus on football and shared experience.
According to a report by Fox News, DHS official Jeff Brannigan held a series of private calls with local officials and NFL representatives. During the calls, he reportedly indicated that ICE does not plan to conduct any law enforcement actions during Super Bowl week or at the game itself.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin furthered that position in a statement, emphasizing that DHS involvement is centered on safety rather than immigration enforcement. She said that similar security measures are in place at other big global events, including the World Cup. McLaughlin said DHS remains committed to working with federal and local partners to ensure the Super Bowl is safe for everyone involved.
She added that Super Bowl security involves a “whole of government response” conducted in line with the U.S. Constitution, and stressed that individuals who are in the country legally and not breaking other laws have nothing to fear.
Published: Feb 4, 2026 12:08 pm