Immigration Raids Impact MLS Communities

The lively atmosphere in Major League Soccer (MLS) stadiums has been deeply affected since immigration raids began under Donald Trump’s administration. Latino supporters, who have long been a vital part of American sports events, are attending fewer games due to fears of ICE actions, resulting in noticeably empty sections of the stands.

Atlanta United illustrates this trend. Its well-known supporters’ group, “La 12 de Atlanta,” which was once integral to the team’s success, has diminished significantly at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Fans told Univisión that the fear of detentions has kept them away from matches, turning their enthusiasm into worry.

MLS officials have distanced themselves from the situation. Commissioner Don Garber mentioned league rules that limit political expressions in stadiums but expressed uncertainty about the MLS’s role in addressing this issue.

The impact is clear at major events like the 2025 Club World Cup and the Gold Cup, where several supporter groups have completely opted out. What used to be the league’s biggest asset—a lively, diverse fan culture—has been diminished by a political environment that has changed how fans engage with the sport.