Messi reportedly faced multiple bomb threats during 2026 World Cup

Argentina captain Lionel Messi was reportedly the target of multiple threats during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, prompting security agencies to launch investigations, according to Spanish newspaper MARCA.

One of the alleged threats was made shortly before Argentina’s Round of 16 encounter against Egypt at the tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

A police report cited by MARCA said a suspect posted a threatening message on social media, allegedly claiming that he intended to attack Messi with explosives.

The threat triggered heightened security measures at the Atlanta stadium, where authorities conducted searches with sniffer dogs following separate reports that explosives had been placed in bins around the venue.

However, no explosives were discovered, and officials subsequently classified the alert as a false alarm.

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Another alleged threat reportedly surfaced ahead of Argentina’s group-stage match against Jordan. According to the report, a man called Dallas airport and claimed that he and two accomplices were travelling to the stadium with homemade explosives and an AR-15 rifle. Messi was reportedly identified as their intended target.

MARCA reported that Messi received more threats than any other player during the tournament.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was also reportedly targeted by separate threats, leading to several arrests during the competition.

The report further stated that the FBI and other international security agencies worked together throughout the World Cup to monitor potential threats and coordinate responses involving high-profile players.

Despite the reported incidents, there were no confirmed attacks against Messi, and security personnel continued to provide protection around Argentina’s matches.