Fans braced for ICE presence at the Super Bowl, then the league made an official statement

The NFL has formally addressed weeks of speculation surrounding potential immigration enforcement at Super Bowl LX, confirming that no ICE operations are planned for the event. As reported by Fox News, the clarification follows mounting concern from fans and advocacy groups ahead of the game.

The issue had drawn increasing attention as rumors circulated about possible federal enforcement actions during Super Bowl week. Those concerns prompted protests and public pressure on the league to provide clarity, particularly as fans prepared to travel to Santa Clara for the game.

With kickoff approaching, the league’s statement aimed to remove uncertainty and ensure the focus remains on the championship matchup rather than off-field anxieties that had dominated much of the discussion leading up to Super Bowl weekend. The clarification was intended to provide reassurance as fans finalized travel and attendance plans.

The league stepped in to end weeks of confusion

NFL chief of security Cathy Lanier addressed the matter directly during a news conference Tuesday, stating that immigration enforcement would not be part of Super Bowl security operations. She confirmed that no ICE or immigration enforcement actions are scheduled at Levi’s Stadium or any Super Bowl-related events, amid broader debate tied to recent GOP demands after the ICE shooting.

Lanier’s comments followed weeks of inconsistent messaging that left fans unsure what to expect. While earlier reports suggested enforcement was unlikely, the league had not previously made a definitive public statement.

The confirmation stands in contrast to remarks made in October by Department of Homeland Security official Corey Lewandowski, who suggested enforcement actions could take place at the Super Bowl. He said at the time there should be no safe havens, including major sporting events, which heightened concerns among immigrant communities and advocates.

Although immigration enforcement has been ruled out, federal agencies will still be present as part of standard security planning. DHS officials emphasized that their role will focus on public safety and event security, consistent with other major sporting events, following heightened attention to an unexpected airline travel incident.

Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said DHS is working with local and federal partners to ensure the Super Bowl is safe, adding that the mission mirrors security efforts used for events such as the World Cup. She also stated that individuals who are in the country legally and not breaking other laws have nothing to fear.

The controversy also reached beyond security discussions, with halftime performer Bad Bunny criticizing ICE during an award acceptance speech earlier this week. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell later commented that he hopes the Super Bowl platform will be used to unite people.

With the league’s clarification now public, Super Bowl LX will proceed under a full security plan that does not include immigration enforcement operations.