The FIFA 2026 World Cup was a unique tournament in every aspect, but beyond the spectacle on the field, this tournament was also accompanied by a super organization and very strict security measures. Recently, the media have also revealed some truly alarming scenarios, or behind-the-scenes stories, related to the security of some of the main characters.

According to the Spanish daily Marca, a report by the US police reveals the interventions of the FBI and the Center for International Police Cooperation to prevent serious threats against footballers and referees. Lionel Messi was particularly targeted by the threats. Before Argentina's match with Jordan, a call at Dallas airport raised the alarm. A person threatened to enter the stadium with two accomplices, armed and with homemade bombs, identifying Messi as the target. Another threat appeared on social networks before the Argentina-Egypt match. A person claimed to enter the Atlanta stadium and use bombs against the Argentine star. During the match, there were also reports of suspected bombs in the stadium stands. Anti-explosive units searched the area and confirmed that the alarm was false.

Cristiano Ronaldo was also involved in the security incidents. The FBI was alerted to a person seeking confidential information about the Portuguese national team's hotel. He was identified and later arrested inside the hotel. In Toronto, another person was stopped while trying to enter the elevator reserved for Ronaldo. His claim? He just wanted a selfie with the idol. The threats did not escape even the referees or FIFA officials, but all this chaotic situation took place behind the scenes, only recently revealed by the world media.