SoFi Stadium Workers Vote 96% to Strike Ahead of World Cup Opener
Over 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, represented by UNITE HERE Local 11, voted 96% to authorize a strike one week before the USMNT’s World Cup opener against Paraguay on June 12. Negotiations with operator Legends Global broke down over demands for higher wages, premium pay, a housing fund, and a ban on ICE agents at World Cup venues. If unresolved, the strike could disrupt eight matches, including a quarterfinal.
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SoFi Stadium Workers Wear 'Kick ICE Out' Buttons During World Cup Match
On June 12, 2026, unionized workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, represented by Unite Here Local Eleven, wore 'Kick ICE Out' buttons during the FIFA World Cup match between the United States and Paraguay. The union, representing over 2,000 food and beverage workers, argued the buttons are permitted under their contract and protected by the First Amendment. The action follows a recent strike authorization vote and a new contract deal that includes a 40% pay increase, premium pay for mega-events, and a clause allowing workers to walk off the job if they believe ICE presence poses a safety threat. The union has long expressed concerns about ICE involvement in the World Cup. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defended ICE, stating there is no reason to fear law enforcement unless breaking the law.
Soccer - The AthleticSoFi Stadium Workers Wear 'Kick ICE Out' Buttons During World Cup Match
On June 12, 2026, unionized workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, represented by Unite Here Local Eleven, began wearing 'Kick ICE Out' buttons during the FIFA World Cup match between the United States and Paraguay. The union, representing over 2,000 food and beverage workers, argues the buttons are permitted under their contract and protected by the First Amendment. The action follows a recent strike authorization vote and a new contract deal that included a 40% pay increase and a clause allowing workers to walk off the job if ICE presence creates safety concerns. The union expresses fear that federal immigration enforcement at the World Cup could harm workers and their communities. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defended ICE's role, stating there is no reason to fear law enforcement unless breaking the law.
Soccer - The AthleticWorld Cup 2026 Organizers Avoid Strike at SoFi Stadium Days Before Tournament Begins
World Cup 2026 organizers narrowly avoided a strike at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles just two days before the USA's opening match against Paraguay. The union UNITE HERE Local 11, representing over 2,000 food and beverage workers, had authorized strike action last week after multiple bargaining sessions failed. However, a last-minute agreement with stadium operator Legends Global secured workers a 40% pay increase, premium pay for mega-events like World Cup games, protections allowing workers to walk out if federal agents (including ICE) create safety concerns, and assurances that accreditation processes will be less invasive than FIFA's standard. The deal is subject to ratification by workers on Wednesday. SoFi Stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup matches, including the USA opener on June 12, two round of 32 games, and a quarter-final.
Mirror - FootballLos Angeles Union Threatens Strike at World Cup Match Over ICE Raid Concerns
UNITE HERE Local 11, representing 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium, has reached a contract agreement with food contractor Legends Global but reserved the right to strike if ICE agents appear at the U.S. World Cup match on Friday. The union, known for its strong immigrant advocacy, demands guarantees that federal immigration enforcement will not target workers or fans at the stadium, citing safety concerns. The article details the union's history of defending immigrant rights, including pioneering contract provisions for deported workers and its role in Los Angeles labor and political organizing. The dispute highlights tensions between immigration enforcement and major international sporting events in immigrant-heavy communities.
The American ProspectLos Angeles Union Threatens Strike at World Cup Over ICE Raid Concerns
UNITE HERE Local 11, representing 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium, reached a contract agreement with contractor Legends Global but reserved the right to strike if ICE agents appear at the World Cup match on Friday. The union, known for its immigrant rights advocacy, demanded guarantees that federal immigration enforcement would not threaten worker safety during the event. The article details the union's history of organizing immigrant workers in Los Angeles, including its role in opposing Proposition 187 and pioneering contract provisions protecting deported workers. The dispute highlights tensions between immigration enforcement and major international sporting events in immigrant-heavy communities.
The American ProspectLos Angeles Union Threatens Strike at World Cup Over ICE Raid Concerns
UNITE HERE Local 11, representing 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium, has settled a contract dispute with contractor Legends Global but reserved the right to strike if ICE agents appear at Friday's World Cup match featuring the U.S. team. The union, known for its strong immigrant advocacy, demanded guarantees that immigration enforcement would not threaten worker safety. The article highlights the union's history of defending immigrant workers, including provisions for re-employment after deportation. The dispute underscores tensions between immigration enforcement and major international sporting events in immigrant-heavy Los Angeles.
The American ProspectUnion for SoFi Stadium Workers Reaches Agreement with Operators After Strike Authorization
The union representing over 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium, UNITE HERE Local 11, has reached a tentative agreement with stadium operators Legends Global, averting a strike that had been authorized last week. The high-stakes negotiations secured a 40 percent pay increase for concession stand attendants, making them the highest-paid at NFL venues, with most workers earning over $40 per hour. The deal also includes a clause allowing workers to walk off if federal agents, including ICE, create a reasonable apprehension of harm. The agreement runs until April 2028, providing leverage ahead of the Los Angeles Olympic Games. It also includes premium pay for all eight World Cup matches at the venue and commitments to less invasive accreditation processes for future mega-events. The deal is subject to worker ratification on Wednesday.
Soccer - The AthleticUnion for SoFi Stadium workers reaches agreement with operators after previously authorizing strike
UNITE HERE Local 11, representing over 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, has reached a tentative agreement with stadium operator Legends Global, averting a potential strike during the 2026 World Cup. The deal includes a 40% pay increase for concession attendants, making them the highest-paid NFL venue workers at over $40 per hour. A key provision allows workers to walk off the job if they believe federal agents, including ICE, create a safety risk. The agreement runs through April 2028, providing leverage ahead of the Los Angeles Olympic Games. Workers will vote on ratification on Wednesday. The union credited the strike authorization vote and the desire to avoid labor strife during the World Cup as critical factors in securing the improved contract.
Soccer - The AthleticUnion for SoFi Stadium Workers Reaches Agreement with Operators After Strike Authorization
The union representing over 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium, UNITE HERE Local 11, has reached a tentative agreement with stadium operators Legends Global, averting a strike that had been authorized last week. The deal includes a 40% pay increase for concessions attendants, making them the highest-paid NFL venue workers at over $40 per hour. A key clause allows workers to walk off the job if federal agents, including ICE, create a safety concern. The agreement also includes premium pay for all eight World Cup matches hosted at the stadium, contributions to a housing fund, and protections against invasive accreditation processes. The deal is subject to worker ratification on Wednesday. The union cited the strike vote and the desire to avoid labor strife during the World Cup as critical factors in securing the improved terms.
Soccer - The AthleticSoFi Stadium workers vote to authorize strike ahead of World Cup matches
Workers at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, have voted to authorize a strike as the venue prepares to host the U.S. men's soccer team's opening World Cup match against Paraguay on June 12. The vote, involving 2,000 bartenders, servers, cooks, and dishwashers, does not guarantee a walkout but gives the option if contract talks with food service provider Legends Global remain stalled. Union members cite inadequate pay, subcontracting concerns, and fears of immigration enforcement under the Trump administration as key issues. Union co-president Kurt Petersen warned that a strike could leave high-end suites with only bottled water and Doritos. Legends Global stated it is committed to reaching an agreement. Community groups in other World Cup host cities have also called for a halt to immigration enforcement during matches.
Fortune | FORTUNEStrike Threat Looms Over Los Angeles World Cup Matches at SoFi Stadium
One week before the first World Cup match in Los Angeles, 2,000 concession employees at SoFi Stadium voted 96% to authorize a strike after contract negotiations failed. The strike threatens eight key matches, starting with the United States vs Paraguay on June 12. The union demands that no U.S. immigration agents (ICE) enter the stadium to protect workers. FIFA's strict protocols require background checks on all staff, making last-minute replacements impossible if a walkout occurs. The conflict creates a major logistical and security headache for FIFA and the tournament organizers.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertWorld Cup Games at SoFi Stadium Threatened by Strike of 2,000 Catering Workers
Nearly 2,000 catering workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, represented by the Unite Here Local 11 union, have voted overwhelmingly (96%) to authorize a strike over wages, threatening eight scheduled 2026 World Cup matches. The workers, including baristas, cooks, and dishwashers, cite the disparity between high ticket prices (starting at $2,000 for a USA game) and their low wages. The strike vote followed failed negotiations with subcontractor Legends Global. The first game, USA vs. Paraguay, is set for June 12, 2026. Both parties are scheduled to meet on Monday for further talks to avert disruption. The article lists all affected group stage and knockout round games.
BILD - SportStadium workers in the United States vote in favor of strike during the 2026 World Cup
Workers at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, which will host the US national team's debut match in the 2026 World Cup, have voted in favor of a strike. The vote, held on Friday, involves about 2,000 bartenders, waiters, cooks, and dishwashers. The decision does not guarantee a strike but authorizes one if contract negotiations with food service provider Legends Global fail. Union leader Yolanda Fierro warned workers could strike as early as June 12, the day of the USA vs. Paraguay match. Workers are demanding higher wages and protections against outsourcing and potential immigration raids by ICE. Union co-president Kurt Petersen criticized the slow pace of negotiations, noting that while the World Cup will generate huge profits, workers struggle to pay rent. Legends Global stated it is committed to reaching an agreement. Community groups in other host cities like Atlanta and Miami have also called for suspending ICE operations near stadiums during the event.
RecordNearly 2,000 Workers at SoFi Stadium Vote to Authorize Strike One Week Before 2026 World Cup
Nearly 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, which is set to host the first match of the 2026 World Cup on American soil on June 12, voted overwhelmingly (96%) to authorize a strike. The workers, represented by Unite Here Local 11, have been without a contract for over a year. They demand salary improvements and guarantees that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will not conduct operations during the tournament. The Department of Homeland Security stated ICE agents will focus on security, not migrant arrests. Negotiations between the union and Legends Global, the stadium's food service contractor, are scheduled to resume on Monday. If no deal is reached, workers plan to strike and protest outside the stadium during the USA vs. Paraguay match, which could disrupt the event. SoFi Stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup matches, including a quarterfinal.
FútbolSoFi Stadium Workers Vote to Authorize Strike One Week Before USMNT World Cup Opener
The union representing over 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium, UNITE HERE Local 11, has voted 96% in favor of authorizing a strike, just one week before the U.S. men's national team opens its World Cup campaign at the venue near Los Angeles. The workers, primarily in food and beverage concessions, broke off negotiations with stadium operator Legends Global after multiple bargaining sessions failed. The union's co-president, Kurt Petersen, stated that Legends was not taking worker concerns seriously. Key demands include a public commitment from FIFA that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will not be permitted at World Cup venues, restrictions on subcontractors, and a ban on AI or automation that could eliminate jobs. The strike could affect eight World Cup matches at SoFi, including the USMNT's opener against Paraguay on June 12. A committee of workers will decide when a strike will occur if no agreement is reached in ongoing negotiations.
Soccer - The AthleticSoFi Stadium Workers Vote 96% to Strike One Week Before USMNT World Cup Opener
The union representing over 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium, UNITE HERE Local 11, has voted 96% in favor of authorizing a strike, just one week before the U.S. men's national team opens its World Cup campaign at the venue. The workers, primarily in food and beverage concessions, have broken off negotiations with stadium operator Legends Global. Key demands include higher wages reflecting the Los Angeles cost of living, premium pay for mega-events, a housing fund, a ban on ICE agents at World Cup venues, and restrictions on subcontractors and automation. The strike could affect eight World Cup matches at the stadium, including the USMNT's opener against Paraguay on June 12. A committee will decide when the strike begins if no agreement is reached in upcoming negotiations.
Soccer - The AthleticSoFi Stadium workers vote to authorize strike one week before USMNT World Cup opener
Workers at SoFi Stadium, represented by UNITE HERE Local 11, have voted 96% in favor of authorizing a strike just one week before the US men's national team opens its World Cup campaign at the venue. The union represents over 2,000 food and beverage workers, including cooks, dishwashers, servers, and bartenders. Negotiations with stadium operator Legends Global broke down after multiple sessions failed to reach a new agreement. The potential strike could affect eight World Cup matches at the stadium, which is owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. Key union demands include a FIFA commitment to bar U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from World Cup venues, restrictions on subcontractors, and a ban on AI/automation that could eliminate jobs. A worker committee will decide when to strike if no deal is reached. Further negotiations are scheduled for Monday ahead of the June 12 USMNT vs Paraguay match.
Soccer - The AthleticSoFi Stadium Workers Vote 96% to Strike One Week Before USMNT World Cup Opener
The union representing over 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium, UNITE HERE Local 11, has voted 96% in favor of authorizing a strike, just one week before the U.S. men's national team opens its World Cup campaign at the venue on June 12. Negotiations with stadium operator Legends Global broke off last week after failing to reach a new agreement. The union's co-president, Kurt Petersen, accused Legends of not taking worker concerns seriously, offering only minor pay increases. Key demands include higher wages reflecting the cost of living in Los Angeles, premium pay for mega-events, a housing fund, restrictions on subcontractors and automation, and a commitment from FIFA to bar U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from World Cup venues. A strike could disrupt eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, which is owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. A committee of workers will decide when to strike if no deal is reached in ongoing negotiations.
Soccer - The Athletic