Classified FBI documents revealed bomb threats and harassment targeting Lionel Messi and other figures at World Cup 2026, according to media reports. The research network Prensa Ibérica accessed the confidential records, which were republished by elperiodico. Under the coordination of the FBI and with international police liaisons, the International Police Cooperation Center evaluated daily security risks, hate messages, and terror scenarios.
Lionel Messi stood at the center of the most severe threats. A caller to Dallas airport reported that he and two armed companions were heading to the stadium during the Argentina match against Jordan. The caller stated they carried improvised bombs and a semi-automatic rifle to attack police officers and players, making specific reference to Messi.
Another threat targeted the Argentina match against Egypt on July 7 in Atlanta. A user on X stated he was ready to enter the stadium and blow up Messi using four bombs attached to his body. During the same game, explosives experts and K-9 handlers searched the venue after a caller claimed three bombs were placed in stadium trash cans.
Stalking incidents and referee threats
Cristiano Ronaldo faced harassment in two host cities. A FIFA official flagged a suspicious man asking detailed questions about the player's hotel on June 14, leading Houston police to arrest the suspect at the team hotel on June 16. Authorities in Toronto also arrested a fan who tried to enter an elevator with Ronaldo, though the man claimed he only wanted a selfie.
French referee François Letexier, who officiated the Argentina match against Egypt, received the most extensive threats. The International Police Cooperation Center recorded six thousand threatening messages sent to his personal WhatsApp account, primarily from Egyptian citizens. Police reports also noted xenophobic insults directed at Kylian Mbappé, who was denounced on X by a Paraguayan senator.
