CBP OFO concludes FIFA World Cup 2026™ enforcement, protects US consumers
WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations today announced the conclusion of its enforcement operations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. Throughout the tournament, OFO officers prioritized the protection of U.S. commerce and consumers by targeting illicit cargo and intellectual property rights violations at all ports of entry.
CBP’s enforcement campaign resulted in the seizure of a record number of counterfeit and infringing goods related to the FIFA World Cup 2026™. As of July 20, 2026, OFO officers and specialists conducted 2,246 seizures, intercepting 476,903 counterfeit items with an estimated manufacturer’s suggested MSRP of $33,112,031. CBP's seizure of fake goods is more than protecting intellectual property rights.
“OFO’s enforcement actions during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ sent a clear message: counterfeit and illicit goods will not be tolerated at America’s borders,” said OFO Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino. “CBP is protecting economic security, preventing proceeds from reaching the hands of criminal organizations, and stopping illegal transnational criminal organizations that profit from forced labor.”
During the tournament, officers and specialists focused on high-risk shipments and conducted targeted examinations of cargo containers, express consignments, and commercial imports. Among the most significant enforcement actions, officers intercepted a shipment of over 18,000 counterfeit Mexico soccer jerseys, lacking proper licensing and appraised at more than $2.7 million MSRP. Another major case involved nearly 68,000 counterfeit FIFA mascot toys, confirmed as non-genuine by trademark holders and valued at over $2.3 million. Additionally, officers seized more than 13,000 counterfeit Adidas soccer jerseys, valued at over $1.8 million, following detailed examination and trademark verification. All seizures were processed in accordance with federal law and referred for final disposition.
Enforcement efforts were supported by advanced targeting, intelligence sharing, and close coordination with trademark rights holders. To further support enforcement and compliance, CBP deployed COMPASS, a secure, interactive virtual assistant available across CBP websites and at askcompass.cbp.gov. COMPASS provided real-time, authoritative answers to questions about cargo entry requirements, IPR regulations, and inspection protocols. By delivering accurate information and guidance, COMPASS helped importers, brokers, and the trade community understand and comply with U.S. law, allowing officers and specialists to focus on enforcement priorities. Since its deployment on April 1, 2026, COMPASS responded to more than 85,000 inquiries related to cargo entry, IPR regulations, and inspection protocols.
The Office of Field Operations remains vigilant in enforcing U.S. trade and intellectual property laws at every port of entry. OFO encourages importers, shippers, and the trade community to partner with us in protecting the nation’s economy.
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