Workers at SoFi Stadium are moving closer to a strike ahead of the 2026 World Cup. As many as 96% of union members backed strike action, potentially affecting preparations at one of the tournament’s key venues.

SoFi Stadium workers overwhelmingly support strike action

The union UNITE HERE Local 11 announced that as many as 96% of voting members supported granting union leaders authorization to call a strike. Those covered by the vote included cashiers, bartenders, cooks, dishwashers, concession workers and employees responsible for guest services during events held at the SoFi Stadium. This means that a strike could begin virtually at any moment if negotiations with the employer fail to result in an agreement.

Higher wages and job security are the union’s main demands

Union representatives emphasize that workers are primarily demanding better wages and greater employment stability. Another important element of the negotiations concerns protections against outsourcing parts of the services.

Union officials fear that further expansion of outsourcing could lead to a reduction in the number of jobs covered by union protections and a deterioration in employment conditions. According to workers’ representatives, the World Cup and the additional revenue associated with it should also result in improvements for the people who serve fans during sporting events on a daily basis.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak | A strike at SoFi Stadium is becoming increasingly likely. As many as 96% of union members voted in favor of authorizing industrial action, potentially affecting preparations at one of the main venues for the 2026 World Cup.

World Cup 2026 and concerns over immigration enforcement

One of the most controversial issues remains the presence of federal immigration authorities during the World Cup. UNITE HERE Local 11 has asked FIFA to provide guarantees that U.S. immigration agencies, including ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and the Border Patrol, will not conduct immigration enforcement operations during matches. For many workers, especially those from immigrant families, the issue raises particular concerns. In recent months, the administration of Donald Trump has intensified immigration enforcement measures, causing anxiety in many labor communities.

One stadium employee, Yolanda Fierro, openly declared that she would be willing to participate in a strike if no agreement is reached. She emphasized that workers are proud to help host an event of global significance and want to provide fans with an unforgettable experience.

At the same time, she stressed that no one should have to fear separation from their family or potential actions by immigration authorities while carrying out their professional duties. Her statement illustrates that the current dispute extends beyond wage issues and also touches on feelings of security and the protection of workers’ rights.

Security officials seek to reassure ahead of the World Cup

Robert Luna previously stated that, according to information received from the Department of Homeland Security, federal officers will be present during the World Cup solely to help ensure the security of the event. According to those assurances, immigration enforcement activities are not expected to take place during matches. Luna noted, however, that circumstances can change and that any policy shift could create additional organizational challenges.

Federal officials have expressed a similar position, indicating that the presence of security agencies will be primarily related to counterterrorism efforts, combating human trafficking and preventing the sale of counterfeit tickets and illegal merchandise.

© Grzegorz Kaliciak | Tensions are rising around SoFi Stadium less than a year before the World Cup. Workers are demanding higher wages, stronger job protections and assurances regarding immigration enforcement during the tournament.

Negotiations with SoFi Stadium service operator continue

Food service and hospitality operations at the stadium are managed by Legends Global. Company representatives say they have maintained a positive relationship with the union for more than a decade and remain committed to further negotiations. The company emphasized that it wants to reach a fair agreement and ensure the highest quality of service during World Cup matches.

According to union leaders, however, negotiations are progressing very slowly. As reported by UNITE HERE Local 11 co-president Kurt Petersen, agreement has been reached only on part of the proposed pay increases for cooks and back-of-house food service staff.