Messi targeted in bomb threats during World Cup – Report

A plot to assassinate Argentine football icon Lionel Messi during the 2026 FIFA World Cup was uncovered, according to a police report cited by Spanish newspaper MARCA. The report details alleged threats from suspects who planned to detonate explosives and storm stadiums where Messi was scheduled to play.

MARCA reported that Messi was the target of more threats than any other player during the tournament. One particularly alarming threat involved a suicide bomb warning lodged just before Argentina's Round of 16 match against Egypt. A suspect allegedly posted on social media, "I’m going to blow up Messi with four bombs strapped to my body." This message prompted a thorough stadium search by sniffer dogs in Atlanta.

Investigators received separate reports of explosives possibly hidden in bins around the venue, leading to the extensive security sweep. Although the search yielded no explosives, officials later confirmed the alert was a false alarm. Another threat surfaced before Argentina's group-stage game against Jordan, when a man reportedly called Dallas airport claiming he and two accomplices were heading to the stadium armed with homemade bombs and an AR-15 rifle, with Messi as their specific target.

The report also indicated that Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo was not spared from threats. Several individuals were reportedly arrested during the World Cup for separate threats made against him. Security agencies, including the FBI, worked closely with international police partners throughout the tournament to identify and neutralize potential threats against prominent players.

“

I’m going to blow up Messi with four bombs strapped to my body.