In a startling revelation, leaked security files have disclosed a bomb scare involving the England team bus just hours before their 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final clash with Argentina. The alert was triggered when a security dog detected what was believed to be explosives on the bus, according to a report from the Spanish newspaper Informacion.

False Alarm on the Team Bus

The incident took place prior to the match on July 15 in Atlanta, where England ultimately lost 2-1 despite initially taking the lead. The leaked report categorized this alert as one of the most alarming security incidents of the tournament. A police dog handler indicated a section of the England team bus as positive for explosives after receiving a claim of a bomb being placed on board. The report stated, “The most concerning occurred when someone claimed there was a bomb on the bus transporting the England team to play the semi-final against Argentina.”

However, a subsequent check by another canine contradicted the initial alert. Authorities later concluded that the positive reading was due to an oil leak, not an explosive device. The Daily Express reported that the canine agent's initial indication was corrected by another dog, confirming that the alert was a false alarm stemming from a mechanical failure.

Broader Security Concerns

This incident was part of a larger array of security threats monitored during the World Cup, with the FBI and the multi-agency IPCC command post overseeing international law enforcement efforts. The leaked documents also highlighted a separate threat against FIFA president Gianni Infantino, where an individual on social media threatened to attack Infantino's home if controversial hydration breaks continued during matches. While the FBI was informed of this threat, the reports did not clarify what actions were taken in response.

The bomb scare involving the England team bus underscores the heightened security measures in place during the tournament, reflecting the ongoing vigilance required in such high-stakes international events.