World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi targeted by several death threats

Lionel Messi was not only at the center of sports attention during the 2026 World Cup. The captain of Argentina was also reportedly the target of several death threats during the competition, according to an investigation conducted by the Spanish daily Marca, based on a report from the American authorities.

This document reportedly listed the main threats faced by American security services during the tournament. Among the reported incidents was a threat directly targeting the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner. Before a group stage match between Jordan and Argentina, authorities were informed of a planned attack on the stadium. An individual claimed to want to storm the venue with two accomplices, armed with homemade explosives and an AR-15 type rifle.

During this exchange, Lionel Messi was explicitly identified as the target. The individual allegedly expressed his intention to attack the Argentine captain. American authorities also discovered particularly concerning messages on the Internet before the match between Argentina and Egypt. Security measures were then heightened around the stadium. A search operation for possible explosives was reportedly conducted within the venue, as some devices were supposedly hidden in trash bins.

After a thorough inspection of the stadium, including the intervention of dogs specialized in explosives detection, no bomb was ultimately found. The alert proved to be unfounded. Nevertheless, these various episodes illustrate the level of vigilance deployed by American authorities around Lionel Messi and the main stars present during the 2026 World Cup.