Lionel Messi Targeted by Death Threats During the World Cup

Lionel Messi faced targeted security threats during Argentina’s matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, according to a multinational law enforcement intelligence report. Security operations in Dallas and Atlanta handled specific threats referencing explosives and firearms directed at the national team captain, though federal agencies confirmed no devices were recovered and no suspects were detained.

Security Threats at Dallas Airport and Stadium

On June 27, 2026, hours before Argentina’s group stage match against Jordan in Dallas, airport authorities received a threatening phone call, according to reporting by the Spanish sports daily Marca, which reviewed the multinational intelligence report. The caller claimed to possess two accomplices, homemade bombs, and an AR-15 rifle targeting the stadium, players, and Lionel Messi specifically. According to the International Police Cooperation Command (IPCC) situation report cited by Marca, the information was gathered through a multinational coordination center involving the FBI and police forces from 46 countries. Despite the warning, the match proceeded as scheduled, with Argentina securing a 3–1 victory.

Atlanta Match Security Sweeps and Investigation Results

A second security incident occurred ten days later ahead of Argentina’s round of the match against Egypt in Atlanta. An account on the social media platform X announced an intention to enter the stadium carrying four explosives, while a separate phone call during the match reported three explosive devices placed in waste bins. Law enforcement agencies deployed explosive detection K-9 units to sweep the venue, yielding negative results. According to the documentation reviewed by journalist Luis Rendueles for Marca, the initial communications specified that callers claimed to have accomplices or devices, which international news coverage subsequently recharacterized. Federal investigators have not announced any arrests, weapon seizures, or identified suspects in connection with either threat.