England’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been disrupted after training equipment destined for the team’s base in Kansas City was reportedly stolen before the squad’s arrival.
The incident is said to have occurred while the equipment was being transported from England’s pre-tournament training camp in Florida to Swope Soccer Village in Missouri, where the Three Lions are set to train throughout the competition.
According to British media reports, several items, including footballs and boots, were among the equipment reported missing. Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the suspected theft.
Police Investigating Missing Equipment
Kansas City police confirmed they are investigating a possible theft involving equipment being transported in a team vehicle.
“We are investigating a possible theft of equipment from a team vehicle that arrived in Kansas City with items missing this evening,” a police statement read.
“The investigation is ongoing. Two persons of interest have been taken into custody pending further inquiries.”
Authorities have yet to reveal the total value of the missing items or confirm whether any of the equipment has been recovered.
Focus Remains on Croatia Clash
The incident comes just days before England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday.
Gareth Southgate’s squad is expected to arrive in Kansas City on Saturday after completing a training camp in Florida, where the players have been preparing for the tournament and acclimatising to the hot and humid conditions expected during the competition.
England also played warm-up matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Tampa Bay and Orlando before travelling to their tournament base.
Despite the unexpected setback, there is no indication that the theft will significantly disrupt England’s preparations ahead of their opening fixture.
Kansas City has emerged as one of the major World Cup base locations, with several participating nations choosing the area as their headquarters during the tournament. Algeria, Argentina and the Netherlands are also based in or around the city.
England will now be hoping the off-field distraction is resolved swiftly as they turn their full attention to their quest for a first World Cup title since 1966.
