Messi received the most threats, bombs were mentioned

During the FIFA World Cup held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Argentina’s star player Lionel Messi was subjected to more serious security threats than any other athlete, including several reports of potential terrorist attacks on stadium grounds. According to an American police report cited by Marca, these threats were investigated and neutralized by the FBI and the International Police Cooperation Center (IPCC). One of the most alarming incidents occurred during an early group stage match between Argentina and Jordan. An unknown individual called an airfield in Dallas and threatened to enter the stadium with two others armed with an AR-15 rifle and homemade explosives, aiming to kill Messi. The threat prompted immediate action from authorities, leading to heightened security measures around the venue. Similar threats emerged ahead of the quarterfinal clash between Argentina and Egypt. One of the suspects later posted online a warning stating he would attempt to attack Messi using explosive devices attached to his body while inside the stadium. This led to increased surveillance and precautionary steps taken by security personnel. During the same match, law enforcement received multiple reports of suspicious packages left in waste bins near the stands. The stadium underwent a thorough inspection using bomb-sniffing dogs, though the items turned out to be false alarms. Despite this, the presence of such threats underscored the heightened risk faced by high-profile athletes during major international tournaments. Messi was not the only prominent figure encountering security challenges. Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo also became a target of questionable behavior throughout the tournament. The FIFA reported to the FBI about a man who inquired about the details of Ronaldo's hotel room. The suspect was arrested two days later in the same hotel in Houston. Another incident took place in Toronto, where another person attempted to enter an elevator with Ronaldo. She claimed she simply wanted a photograph with the Portuguese star, but police intervened and stopped her. These episodes highlight the extent to which top athletes are monitored and protected during large-scale sporting events. The situation has raised concerns among players and their teams, with some expressing frustration over the constant scrutiny and the impact on their personal lives. One notable example came from Iva Nišević, who reportedly stated, “He destroyed my life and I can’t forgive him. Because of him, I couldn’t sleep.” While the exact context of her statement remains unclear, it reflects the emotional toll that such incidents can have on individuals involved. As the tournament progresses, security agencies continue to remain vigilant, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to safeguard participants and spectators alike. The ongoing efforts reflect the broader challenge of balancing the excitement of global sports with the imperative of public safety.