Messi, Ronaldo face security scares at World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup may have ended with Spain lifting the trophy, but a reported police dossier has brought fresh attention to the security threats that allegedly shadowed some of football’s biggest stars during the tournament.

According to a report based on an alleged leaked police document, Lionel Messi was repeatedly targeted with threats during Argentina’s campaign, while Cristiano Ronaldo and several other high-profile figures also faced security concerns.

The World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, was already one of the largest sporting events ever staged. Spain eventually defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final to claim the title.

However, behind the packed stadiums and celebrations, security agencies were reportedly dealing with a series of alarming incidents.

One alleged threat emerged before Argentina’s match against Jordan. According to the report, a caller contacted authorities at Dallas airport and threatened an attack at the stadium, allegedly claiming that grenades and rifles would be used.

Another disturbing incident was reportedly recorded before Argentina’s game against Egypt, when a threat targeting Messi was posted on social media. Security concerns escalated during the match after authorities received information suggesting that explosives could have been placed inside stadium waste bins.

Bomb-disposal specialists and trained detection dogs were reportedly deployed to search the area. No explosives were found, according to the report.

The security concerns were not limited to Messi.

Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was also reportedly the subject of attempts to obtain information about his accommodation. In another alleged incident, a suspicious individual reportedly managed to reach his hotel while posing as a fan.

The pressure extended to match officials and other players. French referee François Letexier reportedly received thousands of threatening messages following decisions made during the Argentina-Egypt match.

Players including Alexander Sørloth and Jae-hun Campaz were also allegedly subjected to death threats after missing important opportunities during matches.

The reported security breaches prompted authorities to strengthen protection around key World Cup locations. At one media centre in England, security measures reportedly included multiple protective layers, concrete barriers, anti-sniper screens and a no-fly zone.

The revelations offer a stark reminder that the spectacle of a World Cup comes with enormous security challenges. While millions of fans experienced football, entertainment and celebration, security teams were simultaneously working behind the scenes to protect players, officials and spectators from potential threats.

The security allegations above are presented as reported claims from the supplied report and alleged leaked dossier; they should not be treated as independently established facts unless confirmed by authorities.