# Messi targeted with death threats at 2026 World Cup: report 2026-08-08T14:01:43+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Lionel Messi was the most targeted player for death threats during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a large-scale American police report cited by Marca. One man allegedly threatened to storm the stadium during Argentina's group-stage match against Jordan with homemade bombs and an AR-15 rifle. Another suspect posted online about blowing up Messi with four bombs strapped to his body, prompting a search of the stadium that turned out to be a false alarm. Cristiano Ronaldo also faced serious threats. The FBI was alerted after a man repeatedly sought information about Ronaldo's whereabouts; he was later arrested near the Portugal squad's hotel. In a separate incident, a person was arrested after trying to enter a lift with the Portuguese star, claiming he only wanted a selfie. ## Coverage - hindustantimes.com Tags: 2026 World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo, death threats, Lionel Messi, Marca, security Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/messi-targeted-with-death-threats-at-2026-world-cup-report/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/messi-targeted-with-death-threats-at-2026-world-cup-report/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.