World Cup: England camp hit by theft in USA days before kick-off vs Croatia

England’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup have suffered an unexpected setback after a shipment of training equipment was stolen en route to the team’s base in Kansas City, just days before the tournament opens against Croatia.

The Soccer Association is assessing the extent of the loss after equipment trucks were reportedly broken into ahead of the squad’s arrival at Swope Soccer Village in Missouri on Saturday. Training balls, boots and other necessary equipment are believed to have been procured.

The shipment was transported from England’s pre-tournament camp in West Palm Beach, Florida, and was due to arrive before the team’s first training session in Kansas City. Instead, FA officials were forced to assess the missing equipment and begin arranging replacements.

Only one soccer ball remained from the targeted shipment, according to the Daily Mail. It is feared that boots belonging to England captain Harry Kane and midfielder Jude Bellingham will be among the items stolen.

“England were the victims of a brazen World Cup heist after players’ match boots were stolen from a van before their first training session in Kansas City,” the report said.

He added: “Watches belonging to the team’s biggest stars were seized along with official tournament balls and key training equipment. One soccer ball was among the cargo left behind, while there are fears boots belonging to the likes of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have also gone missing.”

It is understood the theft goes beyond playing equipment. Analytical instruments, whiteboards and massage tables were also part of the delivery, which presented a significant logistical challenge for the English backstage staff.

The timing could hardly be worse for manager Thomas Tuchel, whose side begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas on June 17. Kansas City is set to serve as England’s group stage base, with the opening days of their stay to help establish routines and finalize preparations for the tournament.

Instead, the focus shifted to restoring the missing equipment and ensuring that the disruption did not affect the team’s preparation for the competition.

The Daily Mail reported that security officials suspect that a person involved in transporting the cargo may have played a role in the theft. The FA is working with local law enforcement as investigations continue.

Police reached the spot on Friday evening and reportedly arrested two people in connection with the incident.

England players are expected to take part in their first full training session on Sunday as preparations continue for their World Cup opener against Croatia.

Football World Cup | FIFA World Cup Schedule | FIFA World Cup Points Table | football news

– The end

Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

13 Jun 2026 09:12 IST