Messi faced bomb threats and serious security risks at World Cup

Lionel Messi was subjected to a significant number of serious security threats, including potential bomb attacks, throughout the World Cup held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. According to a report from the U.S. police shared by Marca, the FBI and the International Centre for Police Cooperation (IPCC) were actively involved in monitoring and neutralizing these dangers.

One of the most alarming incidents occurred during Argentina's group stage match against Jordan. An unidentified individual contacted Dallas airport, threatening to infiltrate the stadium with two accomplices, armed with an AR-15 rifle and improvised explosive devices, to assassinate the Argentinian star. A similar threat emerged before Argentina's Round of 16 match against Egypt, with a suspect posting on social media about plans to attack Messi with explosives attached to their body.

During the same match against Egypt, authorities received a false alarm about bombs planted in trash cans at the stadium. A thorough search using bomb-sniffing dogs confirmed it was a hoax. Messi was not the only high-profile player to face security concerns. Cristiano Ronaldo also encountered suspicious behavior during the tournament.

FIFA reported a man to the FBI who had inquired about the details of Ronaldo's hotel accommodation. Police apprehended this individual at the Portuguese team's hotel two days later. Another incident in Toronto saw a person attempt to enter an elevator with Ronaldo, claiming they only wanted a photo, but were stopped by the police.