Despite claims that the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be the most secure tournament in history, recently leaked documents have exposed severe security risks and potential threats against elite players. Investigative reports from the British outlet The Sun and the Spanish crime-focused channel Prensa Ibérica detail a series of chilling threats and safety concerns compiled in secret dossiers by US law enforcement and FIFA.
The International Police Cooperation Center (IPCC), comprised of the FBI and police forces from participating nations, generated daily security reports throughout the tournament. These records highlight that Argentina and its captain, Lionel Messi, were the primary targets of significant security threats. Before Argentina's group stage match against Jordan, an individual contacted Dallas airport, claiming that he and two associates planned to attack the stadium with rifles and hand grenades, explicitly threatening the lives of players, police, and specifically Messi.
Similar threats emerged before the match against Egypt. A suspect posted on the social media platform X, stating, "I will enter the Atlanta stadium and strap four bombs to my body to blow up Messi." Additionally, authorities received an urgent warning that three bombs had been placed in a stadium trash bin during that same match. Although bomb disposal units and trained canines conducted an immediate sweep, no explosives were recovered.
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo also faced security breaches. Leaked documentation reveals that on June 14, a FIFA staff member reported an individual attempting to obtain sensitive information regarding the hotel where the Portuguese star was staying. In a separate incident, a fan managed to bypass security at Ronaldo's hotel and attempted to enter his elevator. Upon being apprehended by police, the individual claimed he only intended to take a selfie.