A leaked police dossier has reportedly revealed multiple security threats targeting Lionel Messi and other high-profile figures during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
According to a report by Spanish newspaper Informacion.es, Messi and the Argentina national team were repeatedly mentioned in security reports covering bomb threats, stalking allegations and online threats during the tournament.
The reported threats were handled through a joint security network involving US authorities and international police cooperation agencies.
Alleged plot targeting Lionel Messi
One of the most serious incidents reportedly involved an individual who allegedly threatened to carry out a suicide bombing at the Atlanta Stadium.
According to the leaked dossier, the person posted a threat on X claiming they intended to enter the stadium carrying explosives and target Messi.
Authorities reportedly treated the message as a serious security threat and investigated the alleged plot.
The report did not indicate that Messi was physically harmed or that the alleged attack was carried out.
Airport bomb threat also investigated
The dossier reportedly detailed another security incident involving a phone call to Dallas airport.
According to the report, the caller allegedly claimed that several people were travelling towards a stadium with homemade explosives and an AR-15 rifle. The caller reportedly identified police officers and football players as potential targets and mentioned Messi.
Security agencies investigated the threat as part of wider measures surrounding the World Cup.
Cristiano Ronaldo also mentioned in security reports
Messi was reportedly not the only major footballer named in the security dossier.
Cristiano Ronaldo also faced security concerns during the tournament, according to the report.
A FIFA employee reportedly alerted authorities on June 14 after noticing a suspicious person allegedly trying to obtain information about Ronaldo’s accommodation.
Similar incidents were reportedly investigated in cities including Toronto, Houston and Miami.
Referee reportedly received thousands of threats
The reported security concerns also extended beyond players.
French referee François Letexier reportedly received around 6,000 threatening messages on WhatsApp during the competition, according to the dossier cited by Informacion.es.
The incidents highlighted the wider security challenges surrounding a major global sporting event involving thousands of players, officials, supporters and staff.
FIFA World Cup 2026 security concerns
The reported threats involving Messi, Ronaldo, referees and other football officials underscore the extensive security measures required during the FIFA World Cup.
While the leaked dossier reportedly documented several threats, the existence of a threat does not by itself establish that an attack was successfully planned or carried out.
Messi and the Argentina team remained under heightened security during the tournament as authorities monitored potential risks around stadiums, airports and team accommodations.
