Sports Desk

Lionel Messi and several other star footballers, coaches and referees faced security concerns during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a confidential security document. Threats, harassment and suspicious activities reportedly prompted authorities to maintain heightened security throughout the tournament.

According to an investigative report by Spanish media outlet Prensa Ibérica, the FBI and the International Police Cooperation Centre (IPCC) regularly monitored the security situation during the World Cup and prepared reports. Some details from those documents have now emerged, revealing threats against several players and match officials.

The report said Argentina captain Messi faced some of the most serious security concerns. On the day of Argentina’s match against Jordan, a man reportedly called police from Dallas airport and said he was heading towards the stadium. He allegedly claimed that he and two others were preparing an attack and that Messi was among their targets.

Another security alert reportedly emerged ahead of Argentina’s match against Egypt. According to the report, an individual posted threats on social media claiming he would enter the stadium with a bomb and kill Messi. During the match, police were also alerted over reports of explosives at several locations inside the stadium. Bomb-detection teams and trained dogs subsequently searched the venue.

Ronaldo Also Faced Security Concerns

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo also reportedly faced several security-related incidents during the tournament.

Police in Houston identified a suspicious individual at Portugal’s team hotel following allegations that the person had been gathering information about Ronaldo’s whereabouts.

In Toronto, a fan reportedly attempted to enter an elevator with Ronaldo but was stopped by security personnel. In Miami, there were also attempts to approach the Portuguese star, while a spectator reportedly entered the pitch during one of the matches.

Threats Linked to On-Field Incidents

Some players reportedly faced threats following their performances or controversial incidents during matches.

France forward Kylian Mbappé faced negative reactions in Paraguay following an incident involving a Paraguayan goalkeeper. A video showing his image being burned also circulated on social media.

Norway forward Alexander Sørloth and his wife reportedly received death threats after he missed a clear scoring opportunity. Colombia’s Jhon Jáder Durán also reportedly faced security concerns after missing a penalty.

French defender Lucas Digne reportedly received threats after conceding a penalty for a foul on Spain’s Lamine Yamal during their match.

South Korea Team Also Under Threat

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo and members of the national team reportedly received death threats following their elimination from the tournament. Authorities provided the team with heightened security, including protection during their journey to the airport.

However, according to the report, French referee François Letexier faced some of the most severe threats. After officiating the Argentina-Egypt match, he reportedly received around 6,000 threatening messages on his personal WhatsApp number.

VAR official Willy Delajod, who worked on the same match, also reportedly received threats. Due to the seriousness of the situation, police were deployed to protect the homes and family members of both referees in France.

The revelations highlight that alongside the intense competition on the pitch, the 2026 World Cup also presented significant security challenges involving players, coaches and match officials.