New Delhi, Aug 8: Argentina captain Lionel Messi was reportedly among the footballers subjected to serious security threats during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to media reports citing a security dossier prepared during the tournament.The reported incidents included alleged bomb threats, suspicious activity and online threats targeting players, officials and match venues.
Security agencies from the United States and other participating countries were said to have coordinated their response to potential threats during the tournament.One of the incidents reportedly occurred in Dallas around Argentina’s match against Jordan. According to the reports, a caller allegedly told authorities that three people were travelling towards the stadium with homemade explosives and an AR-15 rifle.
Messi was reportedly identified as one of the intended targets.Another threat was allegedly issued online before Argentina’s match against Egypt in Atlanta. A user on X reportedly threatened to enter the stadium with explosives and attack the Argentine star.Security concerns reportedly intensified after authorities received another bomb alert linked to the Atlanta venue. Specialist teams, including bomb experts and detection dogs, were deployed to search areas of the stadium.
The reports said the security operation involved cooperation between US agencies and law enforcement bodies from countries participating in the World Cup.
The FBI was reportedly involved in coordinating information related to possible terrorism, violent threats and suspicious activity.Messi was not the only high-profile footballer mentioned in the security reports. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was also reportedly the subject of a security alert after a suspicious individual allegedly sought information about his accommodation.
Police later reportedly detained a man at the hotel where the Portuguese team was staying.Match officials also faced threats during the tournament. French referee François Letexier was reportedly subjected to thousands of threatening messages on WhatsApp, underscoring the growing security concerns surrounding players and officials.
The reported incidents highlight the challenges faced by authorities in securing a major international sporting event involving large crowds, high-profile athletes and extensive international travel.
There is no indication in the reported incidents that Messi or any other targeted player was physically attacked. The threats were instead investigated as part of the wider security operation conducted during the World Cup.
