A recently leaked police dossier has unveiled alarming security threats that were investigated during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Argentina's Lionel Messi reportedly being the primary target of multiple terror threats throughout the tournament. The details, first disclosed by a Spanish newspaper, highlight a range of incidents involving bomb threats, stalking, and online harassment aimed at players, referees, and officials as security agencies worked diligently to ensure safety during the event.

Messi identified as a key target

The Spanish newspaper Informacion.es, which reviewed the police dossier, indicated that both Argentina and Messi were central to several high-priority security alerts during the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. One of the most serious threats occurred prior to Argentina's match against Jordan, where a caller to Dallas airport claimed he and two accomplices intended to enter the stadium with "homemade bombs and an AR-15." The dossier noted that the caller specifically mentioned Messi while threatening to attack "police officers and players from both teams." Another disturbing threat was associated with Argentina's match against Egypt on July 7 in Atlanta, where an X user allegedly posted, "I'm about to enter the Atlanta stadium and blow up Messi with four bombs strapped to my body."

Extensive security measures in place

During the same match, another individual reportedly alerted police about three explosive devices supposedly placed in rubbish bins around the stadium. Following this, bomb disposal units and specialized canine teams conducted thorough searches of the venue. The dossier emphasized that all threats were taken seriously and investigated as part of the comprehensive security measures implemented for the tournament.

The Informacion.es report, which has been referenced by various outlets including the Daily Star and The Mirror, detailed a collaborative security operation involving the FBI and the Centre for International Police Cooperation (IPCC). This joint effort monitored various incidents of terror threats, stalking, and violent messages directed at players, match officials, and their families throughout the competition. Notably, Messi was identified as the player who faced the highest number of terror-related threats during the tournament.