A shooting near England's FIFA World Cup 2026 base camp in Kansas City has raised fresh security concerns ahead of the tournament, after nine people were injured in an incident just days before the competition gets underway across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
According to Reuters, the shooting took place on Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri, approximately four miles from Swope Soccer Village, the facility designated as England's training base during the World Cup.
Kansas City police said all nine victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries. At least three people were taken to hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed that no arrests had been made as investigations continued.
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The incident comes at a sensitive time, with the 48-team FIFA World Cup set to begin in North America and hundreds of thousands of fans expected to travel across host cities during the month-long tournament.
England squad yet to arrive
England's national team has not yet arrived in Kansas City and is scheduled to play a pre-tournament friendly against Costa Rica in Orlando before beginning its World Cup campaign. A spokesperson for England's Football Association declined to comment on the shooting, Reuters reported.
While officials have not linked the incident to the tournament, the location of the shooting has drawn attention because of its proximity to England's designated base camp.
NEW : Moment Kansas City shooting leaves nine injured near Englandās World Cup Camp.
— DOZAš§ (@lil_doza) June 7, 2026
As fans arrive across the U.S. for the tournament, safety concerns are already beginning to surface, fans are raising more questions about security ahead of the World Cup. pic.twitter.com/xbfdwRqog4
Security remains a major focus for organisers as the United States prepares to host the largest World Cup in history, featuring 104 matches across three countries.
Fresh spotlight on gun violence concerns
The shooting has also renewed debate over gun violence in the United States, an issue that has frequently surfaced ahead of major international sporting events.
According to data cited by Reuters from the Gun Violence Archive, the United States recorded more than 400 mass shootings in 2025.
Authorities have not released details regarding a possible motive and have urged witnesses to assist investigators as they work to identify those responsible.
England eye another World Cup run
England enter the tournament as one of the contenders for the title and will begin their Group L campaign against Croatia on June 17 at Dallas Stadium.
The Three Lions will then face Ghana in Boston on June 23 before concluding the group stage against Panama on June 27 at New York New Jersey Stadium.
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Led by captain Harry Kane, England's squad features a mix of experienced internationals and emerging talent, including Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo and Morgan Rogers.
The 1966 champions will be chasing their first World Cup title in six decades as they attempt to build on recent deep runs in major international tournaments.
