A police report has shed light on numerous security threats and incidents that occurred during the 2026 World Cup, with prominent players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as referees, being targeted. The report, reviewed by Spanish media, outlines a range of serious threats, including intentions to harm players during matches.
According to the report, Lionel Messi received a high number of threats throughout the tournament. One particularly serious case emerged before the match between Argentina and Jordan. Authorities received a call from a man who claimed he and two others planned to enter the stadium with improvised explosive devices and an AR-15 rifle. During this call, Messi was specifically named as a target, with the stated intention to murder the Argentine superstar. Police officers and players from both teams were also mentioned as potential targets.
Another incident involving Messi occurred prior to the match between Argentina and Egypt in Atlanta. A social media user posted a threatening message, stating an intention to enter the Atlanta Stadium and harm Messi with explosives. This online threat prompted concern among security officials.
Stadium security concerns
During the Argentina versus Egypt match, an additional alert was received regarding three alleged explosive devices hidden in trash cans within the stadium. Bomb disposal teams and dog handlers were deployed to conduct extensive searches. Although no explosives were found, and the incident was determined to be a false alarm, it highlighted the heightened security environment of the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo also faced several unusual security incidents. A FIFA employee alerted authorities about a suspicious individual attempting to gather information about Ronaldo‘s lodging. This suspect was later arrested at the hotel where the Portugal team was staying. In Toronto, another person was arrested after trying to enter an elevator with Ronaldo, claiming they only wanted a selfie.
An attempt to approach Ronaldo was also recorded in Miami, and during a match against Croatia, a fan wearing Ronaldo‘s jersey invaded the pitch. These events underscore the security challenges faced by high-profile athletes during the competition.
Threats extended to officials and other players
The threats were not limited to star players. Referees officiating at the World Cup also became targets. French referee François Letexier reportedly received over 6,000 threatening messages following the controversial match between Argentina and Egypt, which Argentina won 3-2. Following these threats, additional protection was provided for Letexier and his family in France. VAR referee Willy Delajod also received abusive and threatening messages.
Other players were also subjected to threats. Kylian Mbappé received xenophobic comments on social media after France‘s match against Paraguay, and images of a doll resembling him being set on fire circulated online. Norwegian striker Alexander Sørloth and his wife reportedly received threats after he missed a scoring opportunity. Colombian player Jáminton Campaz became a target of threats after missing a penalty, with the severity of these threats reportedly preventing him from immediately returning with the rest of the Colombian national team after the tournament.
The South Korea national team also required significant security measures after their elimination in the group stage. Threats were received against coach Hong Myung-bo and the players, leading to the team receiving a police escort on their way to the airport.
Source: goal.com