Information regarding the security measures for major football stars during the FIFA World Cup 2026 has caused widespread resonance. According to a report from the Spanish publication Informacion.es, during the tournament, Lionel Messi and other players, as well as officials and referees, received serious threats. These threats included bomb terrorism threats, surveillance of players, and thousands of abusive messages.
According to police documents, Messi was one of the footballers who received the highest number of threats during the World Cup. Security agencies from the USA and participating countries continuously monitored these warnings. For this purpose, information about terrorist warnings, violent threats, and suspicious activity was exchanged through an international network under FBI supervision.
One of the most serious incidents involving Messi occurred in Dallas. Before the match between Argentina and Jordan, an individual contacted Dallas airport claiming to be heading to the stadium with two others. This person allegedly stated that he possessed a 'home-made bomb' and an AR-15 rifle. The threat mentioned the intention to target police officers and players from both teams, specifically naming Messi.
Following this threat, the situation became extremely serious for security services, as Messi was one of the main attractions of the tournament. Police and security services were on high alert regarding the players, as well as the stadium and surrounding areas.
Another serious threat against Messi was received before the match between Argentina and Egypt. This match was scheduled to take place in Atlanta. It was reported that a user on the social network X allegedly threatened to infiltrate the stadium and attack Messi with explosives. According to this person, he planned to enter the stadium by attaching four bombs to his body. This threat heightened the concern of the security services.
Furthermore, during the match in Atlanta, the police received another call alleging that there were three bombs in different trash bins inside the stadium. Subsequently, explosive experts, trained dogs, and K-9 teams were deployed to search the stadium. Security services thoroughly inspected the entire venue, conducting checks for any potential explosive threats. These incidents demonstrated how complex the task of ensuring the safety of players and spectators has become at major events like the World Cup.
Police documents mentioned not only threats directed at Messi; it was also revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo was also at risk during the tournament. According to a report, on June 14, a FIFA employee issued a warning about a suspicious person gathering information about Ronaldo's place of residence. After this incident became known, the Houston police were notified. Then, on June 16, the police arrested this person at Ronaldo's hotel. At the time, he was in the same hotel where the Portuguese team had stayed.
After this incident, vigilance regarding the security of players' hotels and accommodations was increased. Security services monitored to ensure that no suspects attempted to obtain confidential information about the players, their families, or their teams.