Argentina captain Lionel Messi reportedly received more death threats than any other footballer during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to findings cited by Spanish publication Marca. The information was said to be based on a large-scale United States police report examining threats and security incidents connected to the tournament. Messi continued representing Argentina despite the reported risks surrounding him.

One alleged plot was connected to Argentina’s group-stage match against Jordan. A man reportedly threatened to enter the stadium with two other individuals while carrying homemade explosive devices and an AR-15-style rifle. During a telephone call examined by investigators, Messi was allegedly identified as a specific target. The available report did not clarify whether arrests were made in connection with that particular threat.

Authorities also investigated an online message posted before Argentina’s match against Egypt. The suspect allegedly threatened to enter the stadium in Atlanta while carrying four bombs and specifically referred to attacking Messi. Security officials treated the message as a credible potential danger and began checking the venue for explosive devices before or during the fixture.

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Investigators reportedly suspected that explosives might have been concealed inside rubbish bins at the stadium. Security personnel conducted a thorough search of the venue with the assistance of trained sniffer dogs, but no bombs or other explosive material were found. Officials ultimately classified the incident as a false alarm, although it intensified concerns about the security arrangements required to protect high-profile players and spectators.

Messi, who competed at the age of 39, remained focused on Argentina’s campaign despite the reported threats away from the field. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was identified in the findings as the tournament’s most frequently targeted footballer. No attack against him was carried out, and the report did not indicate that he suffered any physical harm during the competition.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was also reportedly subjected to multiple threats during the World Cup. In one case, FIFA alerted the Federal Bureau of Investigation after a man repeatedly sought information about Ronaldo’s location, prompting his arrest. The same individual was reportedly arrested again two days later after Houston police found him at the hotel accommodating the Portuguese squad, further highlighting the security challenges surrounding prominent players.

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