Leaked files reveal bomb threats targeting Messi at 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi was reportedly among the highest-profile players targeted by bomb and armed-attack threats during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to media reports citing purportedly leaked documents linked to the FBI and international police cooperation authorities.

Spanish outlet Informacion first reported the details, which were later picked up by Britain’s The Sun. The documents reportedly detail several threats made before and during Argentina’s matches in the United States.

According to the reports, one of the most serious threats came ahead of Argentina’s group-stage match against Jordan. An unidentified caller reportedly contacted police at Dallas airport and claimed that he and two accomplices were carrying homemade bombs and AR-15 rifles and heading toward the stadium. The caller allegedly threatened police, players from both teams and specifically named Messi as a target.

Further concerns emerged before Argentina’s last-16 match against Egypt in Atlanta. According to the reports, a person posted a threat on X claiming he would carry out a suicide bombing at the stadium. Another caller allegedly told police that three bombs had been placed in stadium trash bins during the match.

Authorities responded by deploying bomb-disposal teams and trained detection dogs to conduct extensive searches of the stadium. No explosives or suspicious devices were reportedly found.

The alleged threats were not limited to Messi. French referee François Letexier reportedly received thousands of threatening messages on WhatsApp after officiating the Argentina-Egypt match. Video assistant referee Willy Delajod was also reportedly subjected to death threats.

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo was similarly the focus of a security concern. Police reportedly detained one person suspected of attempting to obtain information about Ronaldo’s hotel and whereabouts. Another supporter was detained after allegedly trying to enter a lift with the player, although he later said he had only wanted a selfie.

The FBI has said it investigated numerous hoax emergency calls and bomb threats during the tournament. Despite the security alerts, the World Cup concluded without a major security incident, with Spain ultimately lifting the trophy.

The reported documents highlight the scale of security challenges surrounding one of the world’s largest sporting events, while the specific authenticity and full context of the leaked material remain subject to scrutiny.