A friendly soccer match between Argentina and Puerto Rico, originally set to take place next week in Chicago, has been relocated to Florida amid mounting tensions over the ongoing immigration crackdown in the city, according to a source familiar with the decision.
The match, which was scheduled for October 13 at Soldier Field, will now be played at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, home to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami.
The Argentine Football Association confirmed the change, citing the situation in Chicago as the reason for the move. The association official requested anonymity, saying the announcement had not yet been made public.
The relocation comes as President Donald Trump’s administration intensifies its immigration enforcement efforts in Chicago and surrounding areas.
More than 1,000 immigrants have reportedly been arrested since the operation began last month. National Guard troops have been deployed to manage growing protests against the crackdown, prompting security concerns for large public gatherings.
Local organizers and U.S. Soccer officials were said to have raised safety and logistical issues in recent days, leading to the decision to move the game to South Florida.
Argentina, the reigning World Cup champion, is currently preparing for next year’s tournament, which will be cohosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. The team will also face Venezuela in another friendly match this Friday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Lionel Messi, who has been called up for both matches, is expected to draw massive crowds in Florida, where he now plays for Inter Miami. Officials say tickets for the Fort Lauderdale match will go on sale immediately, with existing Chicago ticket holders offered refunds or exchanges.
