Leaked file reveals threats against Messi and Ronaldo at World Cup
A leaked security document has revealed serious threats against Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and several other figures during the World Cup in the United States.
The reported police file showed that security officials dealt with threats against players, referees and teams during the tournament.
Messi was reportedly the target of more than one threat.
Before Argentina’s match against Jordan, a man reportedly called Dallas Airport and threatened to attack the stadium.
He claimed he would enter with two other people carrying hand grenades and an AR 15 rifle. The caller also threatened police officers and players from both teams. He reportedly named Messi as a target.
Another threat came before Argentina faced Egypt.
A person reportedly wrote on X that he planned to enter the stadium in Atlanta with four bombs attached to his body. The threat again targeted Messi.
Police received another warning during the match. A caller claimed that three bombs had been placed inside rubbish bins in the stands.
Security officials then searched the area. Bomb experts and detection dogs took part in the operation.
Portugal captain Ronaldo was also involved in security scares during the tournament.
A FIFA employee reportedly raised concerns after a suspicious person asked for information about Ronaldo’s hotel.
In another incident, a fan entered Ronaldo’s hotel and tried to get into a lift with him. Police stopped the person, who said he only wanted to take a selfie with the Portuguese star.
Referees also received threats.
French referee Francois Letexier reportedly received more than 6,000 threatening WhatsApp messages after his decisions in Argentina’s match against Egypt.
Video referee Willy Delajod also received death threats from angry Egyptian supporters.
Some players faced similar abuse after costly mistakes.
Norway striker Alexander Sorloth and his wife reportedly received death threats after Norway’s quarterfinal against England. The anger came after Sorloth failed to pass the ball to Erling Haaland during a key moment.
Colombia’s Jhon Jaminton Campaz also faced threats after missing a penalty. The situation reportedly prevented him from returning home with the national team.
The incidents brought back memories of Colombian defender Andres Escobar. He was killed in 1994 after scoring an own goal at that year’s World Cup.
There were other security concerns during the tournament.
Some Paraguay supporters burned an effigy carrying Kylian Mbappe’s name after their defeat against France. Mbappe was also targeted with racist chants.
South Korea received extra security after their group stage exit. Coach Hong Myung bo also faced public anger, with police looking into the process behind his appointment.
England’s media centre also faced a security breach. A man carrying a wrench entered the area while shouting.
Officials later increased security around the facility.
Three security barriers surrounded the area, while concrete blocks and screens were also used. Authorities also imposed a no fly zone to reduce the risk of drone attacks.
Armed police provided further protection as officials dealt with security concerns throughout the tournament.
