BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (BN24) — A friendly soccer match between Argentina and Puerto Rico, originally scheduled for next week in Chicago, has been moved to Florida due to rising immigration tensions and low ticket sales in the city.
The match, which was set for Oct. 13 at Soldier Field, will now be played at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, home to Inter Miami and Argentina star Lionel Messi.
Luca Serra, a spokesperson for the Chicago Park District, confirmed the change to The Associated Press on Wednesday, stating that the match will not be held in Chicago.
“Yes, confirming that the Argentina against Puerto Rico match has been canceled in Chicago,” Serra said. “The promoter made the decision this morning due to low ticket sales.”
Although the event promoter has not released an official statement, an executive with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) told the AP that the ongoing immigration crackdown influenced the decision in Chicago. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, cited the deployment of National Guard troops ordered by President Donald Trump as part of a broader agenda to increase deportations.
Protests have erupted in recent weeks in Chicago following a federal immigration sweep that has led to the arrest of more than 1,000 individuals. The Trump administration has doubled down on immigration enforcement, escalating tensions in cities like Chicago, where local opposition has been vocal.
The match is part of Argentina’s preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. Messi, who remains a key figure in Argentina’s squad, has been called up for both upcoming friendlies.
Argentina will still face Venezuela on Friday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, another high-profile fixture in the team’s World Cup warm-up schedule.
