Argentine football star Lionel Messi was reportedly the target of multiple threats during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including an alleged plot involving explosives, according to a police report cited by Spanish newspaper MARCA.
The report said several suspects allegedly threatened to attack stadiums where Messi was scheduled to play during the tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
One of the alleged threats was made shortly before Argentina’s Round of 16 match against Egypt. A suspect reportedly posted a message on social media threatening to attack Messi with explosives.
The threat prompted a security operation at the stadium in Atlanta, where sniffer dogs were deployed after authorities received separate information that explosives may have been placed inside bins around the venue.
No explosives were found, and authorities later determined that the alert was a false alarm.
Another threat was reportedly made before Argentina’s group-stage match against Jordan. According to MARCA, a man contacted Dallas airport and claimed that he and two accomplices were travelling to the stadium with homemade explosives and an AR-15 rifle.
Messi was reportedly identified as the intended target.
The alleged threats led to increased security around Argentina’s matches, with law enforcement agencies monitoring potential risks to Messi and other high-profile players.
Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo was also reportedly the subject of separate threats during the tournament. Several individuals were allegedly arrested in connection with threats against Ronaldo, although those incidents were not linked to the reported threats involving Messi.
The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and other law enforcement agencies reportedly worked with international partners to assess threats and protect players, officials and spectators throughout the tournament.
The incidents underscore the security challenges facing major international sporting events, where large crowds and the presence of globally recognised athletes can create additional risks.
Authorities were able to investigate the reported threats and determine that at least some were false alarms while maintaining security around the affected venues and players.
