Disturbing Threats Targeted Messi
A shocking security report has revealed that Lionel Messi faced multiple death threats during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making him one of the tournament’s most targeted footballers.
According to reports, Messi faced several serious threats, including alleged bomb plots and online messages calling for his assassination. Despite the security concerns, the 39-year-old Argentine captain remained focused on Argentina’s World Cup campaign and continued to perform on the field.
Threat Reportedly Emerged Before Jordan Match
A report cited by Marca, based on findings from a large-scale American police investigation, said Messi received more death threats than any other player during the tournament.
One alarming incident reportedly occurred before Argentina’s group-stage match against Jordan. Investigators alleged that a suspect planned to enter the stadium with two accomplices while carrying homemade explosives and an AR-15 rifle.
Authorities reportedly identified Messi as the alleged primary target and increased security around the Argentine team.
Bomb Threat Raised Security Concerns
Another security scare emerged ahead of Argentina’s match against Egypt. Investigators reportedly discovered threatening messages posted online by a suspect who claimed he intended to enter Atlanta Stadium and detonate bombs targeting Messi.
The message allegedly mentioned “four bombs strapped to my body,” prompting authorities to launch an immediate security response.
Officials treated the threat seriously and carried out an extensive search of the stadium. Security personnel and sniffer dogs inspected the venue after authorities raised concerns that someone might have hidden explosives in waste bins.
Authorities found no explosives and eventually determined that the threat was a false alarm. However, the incident highlighted the security risks that high-profile athletes can face during major international events.
Security Agencies Remained on High Alert
The report said security agencies closely monitored potential threats throughout Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
Messi’s global profile and status as an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner attracted enormous attention during the tournament. Local law enforcement and international security agencies therefore coordinated closely to protect the Argentine squad.
Despite the reported threats, Messi continued to lead Argentina and focused on his performances throughout the competition.
Cristiano Ronaldo Also Faced Security Incidents
The report also highlighted several security incidents involving Cristiano Ronaldo during the tournament.
In one case, FIFA reportedly alerted the FBI after a man repeatedly tried to obtain information about Ronaldo’s location. Authorities later arrested the individual.
According to the report, police detained the same suspect again after they found him near the hotel where Portugal’s national team stayed. The incident raised further concerns about the Portuguese captain’s safety.
In another incident in Toronto, authorities reportedly arrested a person who tried to enter an elevator with Ronaldo. The individual allegedly said he only wanted to take a selfie with the football star, but security officials treated the encounter as a potential security breach.
Security Challenges at Major Sporting Events
The revelations have renewed discussions about the security measures required to protect world-famous athletes during international tournaments.
Messi and Ronaldo remain two of the most recognisable sports figures in the world, which makes their security a major concern for tournament organisers and law enforcement agencies.
The reported incidents highlight the challenges authorities face when protecting players, officials and spectators at events that attract global attention.
Although authorities prevented the reported threats against Messi from causing harm, the findings highlight the significant security precautions that surrounded the Argentine star during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.