of England preparations for 2026 FIFA World Cup they experienced an unexpected failure after training equipment destined for the team’s base in Kansas City was allegedly stolen before the squad arrived.
The incident occurred as equipment was being transported from England’s pre-tournament training camp in Florida to Swope Soccer Village in Missouri, where the Three Lions are due to train during the tournament.
Among the items reported missing were soccer balls and football boots, according to British media reports. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the case.
The police are starting an investigation
Kansas City police confirmed they are investigating the suspected theft of equipment that was being transported on a team vehicle.
“We are investigating the possible theft of equipment from a team vehicle that arrived in Kansas City tonight with items missing,” police said.
“The investigation is ongoing. Two persons of interest have been detained pending further investigation.”
Authorities have not disclosed the total value of the missing items or whether any of the equipment has been recovered.
The focus remains on the opening of the World Cup
The theft happened just days before England kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday.
Gareth Southgate’s side are expected to arrive in Kansas City on Saturday after spending time in Florida preparing for the tournament and acclimatising to the hot and humid conditions expected during the competition.
England played warm-up games against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Tampa Bay and Orlando before heading to their tournament base.
Despite the suspension, there is no indication that the incident will significantly affect the team’s training schedule ahead of the opening game.
Kansas City has become one of the key bases for the World Cup, with several nations choosing the area as their headquarters during the tournament.
Algeria, Argentina and the Netherlands are also located in or around the city.
England will hope the off-field distraction is quickly resolved as they focus on launching their bid for a first world title since 1966.
