Top German soccer team cancels trip to Minneapolis, citing Trump immigration crackdown

Politico

by By Gregory Svirnovskiy

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

German soccer powerhouse Werder Bremen has canceled its planned trip to Minneapolis due to unrest tied to Trump administration immigration policies. The team cited concerns over safety and uncertainty around player entry amid heightened restrictions. The decision follows violent clashes during Operation Metro Surge, which sent federal agents to Minneapolis and resulted in two deaths. City leaders reported a $200 million financial hit from the surge, while Werder Bremen emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The cancellation highlights the growing political tensions surrounding Trump's immigration crackdown. Werder Bremen, known for its progressive values, distanced itself from playing in a city marked by unrest and shootings. The club previously left Twitter over hate speech concerns, underscoring its dedication to fostering an inclusive community. This move reflects broader societal divisions and the impact of government policies on international relations. Despite this cancellation, most global soccer teams have maintained ties with Trump, especially given the U.S. co-hosting the FIFA World Cup. FIFA's president has actively courted Trump's favor, even presenting him with a peace prize. However, Werder Bremen's decision stands out as a rare dissent in the sports world. The timing of this cancellation is significant for Werder Bremen, which is struggling in the Bundesliga. Their 16th-place ranking and lackluster performance may add pressure to their decision. Yet, their progressive stance aligns with a broader shift in global values, where inclusivity and social justice are prioritized over political or economic gains. This incident underscores the intersection of sports, politics, and human rights. It challenges FIFA's and Trump's efforts to use soccer as a tool for diplomacy, questioning whether such initiatives can truly foster peace or merely serve political agendas. Werder Bremen's decision may inspire other teams to reconsider their engagement with governments that promote divisive policies. Ultimately, the cancellation reflects how global issues like immigration and social justice are becoming central to international sports discussions. As the world watches, decisions by organizations like Werder Bremen will shape whether sports can remain apolitical or if they must take a stand in addressing societal challenges.

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Originally published on Politico on 2/20/2026