Lionel Messi faced more than just pressure on the pitch during the 2026 World Cup—he also confronted a far more alarming situation off the field. A leaked US police report has revealed that the Argentina captain received the most threats throughout the tournament.
Ahead of Argentina's group stage match against Jordan, a man reportedly contacted Dallas Airport and claimed he would arrive at the stadium with two others. The man allegedly stated that his group was carrying AR-15 rifles and improvised explosive devices, specifically naming Messi as a murder target.
Security officials handled the threat as part of the strict security measures during the tournament held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Messi became a target again before Argentina faced Egypt in the knockout stage, when a man claimed to have placed a bomb in a rubbish bin in the stadium's stands area—a report that was later declared to be false.
Despite these threats, Messi continued to play and helped Argentina advance far in the tournament. Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 in their final group match, with Messi scoring one goal as a substitute, then secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt in the knockout round with Messi also scoring. Argentina's journey ultimately ended in the final when La Albiceleste lost 0-1 to Spain after the match went to extra time, leaving Messi and his team unable to defend their 2022 World Cup title.
