In stadiums across the United States, it’s long been the Latino fanbase that brings the soul. Whether it’s football, soccer, or any sport that thrives on crowd energy, Latino supporters have filled the stands with flags, chants, and a vibrant presence that transforms games into cultural celebrations.
But this summer, that energy was abruptly silenced.
Following a wave of immigration raids launched by President Donald Trump, Latino communities across the country have been gripped by fear—and that fear is now echoing through the empty seats of Major League Soccer stadiums.
Attendance plummets as ICE raids target Latino communities
For four months, ICE operations have swept through cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Chicago, leaving many fans afraid to attend public events. The impact on MLS has been immediate and visible.
In Atlanta, the once-thriving supporter group “La Doce,” known for its passionate backing of Atlanta United, has all but disappeared from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Since the club’s debut in 2017, Atlanta United has built one of the most loyal fanbases in American soccer, thanks in part to stars like Josef Martínez and Miguel Almirón. Fans traveled across the country to support their team. Now, many are staying home.
Voices from the stands: fear over celebration
Univision reporters recently spoke with fans at Atlanta United matches to understand the drop in attendance. One supporter, Gamaliel Hernández, pointed directly to the ICE raids: “There’s a real fear out there. People are scared of being detained just for showing up to a game.” Another fan added, “It’s not just about soccer anymore—it’s about survival.”
This fear isn’t isolated. Across the league, Latino-led supporter groups have staged walkouts and boycotts. In Los Angeles, the Angel City Brigade and L.A. Outlawz refused to attend the July 4th El Tráfico match, protesting the Galaxy’s silence on ICE crackdowns. Similar actions have taken place in Nashville, Austin, and Chicago.
MLS’s political tightrope
Major League Soccer has tried to stay neutral, banning political banners and tifos in stadiums under the guise of safety. Commissioner Don Garber has stated that he’s unsure whether the league has a role in addressing immigration issues. But for many fans, silence feels like complicity.
The tension was palpable during the 2025 Club World Cup and Gold Cup, both held this summer. Despite Mexico’s historic back-to-back Gold Cup titles, many Latino fans chose not to attend, prioritizing their safety and that of their families.
The absence of Latino fans has left a noticeable void in stadiums that once thrived on their energy. What was once a celebration of sport and identity has become a reflection of deeper social unrest.
As one Austin FC supporter put it, “Soccer culture in America is inseparable from Latino culture. When the government targets our communities, it’s insane not to speak up”.
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