HOUSTON — Law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups are preparing for potential human trafficking risks ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, even as experts remain divided on whether large sporting events lead to measurable increases in trafficking.
During the 2017 Super Bowl at NRG Stadium, authorities reported nearly 100 trafficking-related arrests across the Houston area. Grant Snyder, who led a multi-agency operation at the time, said officers conducted outreach and enforcement efforts to identify victims and suspects.
With Houston set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, officials estimate about 500,000 visitors will attend games over several weeks.
Advocates including Yasmin Vafa say large crowds can increase demand for commercial sex, which may lead traffickers to expand activity. Organizations report that online advertisements are commonly used in trafficking cases and have increased during some past major events.
Other experts dispute a direct link. A 2019 study by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Minnesota found limited empirical evidence connecting large sporting events to spikes in trafficking. Minal Davis said trafficking is a year-round issue and data does not show consistent increases tied to specific events.
Advocates such as Leigh LaChapelle also said research does not support claims of event-driven spikes, while others point to arrests during past events as evidence of heightened enforcement rather than increased incidence.
Law enforcement officials in Texas said they will conduct operations during the World Cup regardless of the data debate. James Cabrera said agencies are planning enforcement actions based on prior experience.
Officials said resources including the National Human Trafficking Hotline will be available during the event, and identified victims may receive services such as healthcare, counseling and legal assistance.
Snyder said the available data does not show clear increases but supports continued preparation by law enforcement agencies.
