England training equipment stolen ahead of World Cup opener
Short overview
England's training equipment was stolen before their arrival in Kansas City. Balls and boots are among the items feared taken after vehicles were broken into. Police are investigating.
England's preparations for the World Cup have been disrupted after thieves stole training equipment ahead of their arrival in Kansas City. The Football Association (FA) is working to determine the full extent of the theft, with balls and boots among the items believed to have been taken.
Incident details
The theft occurred when vehicles transporting equipment to England's training base at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City were broken into. Police officers were on site Friday night dealing with the matter and are in contact with the FA.
Impact on preparations
Thomas Tuchel and his squad are scheduled to arrive in Kansas City on Saturday afternoon. The stolen equipment was meant to be in place before their arrival. The FA is assessing what replacements are needed to ensure the team can train as planned.
England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on Wednesday at 21:00 BST. Further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
More on these topics
Letters That Unite: Gervane Kastaneer's Emotional World Cup Journey
Curaçao forward Gervane Kastaneer reads a birthday letter from his father, reflecting on overcoming a career-threatening eye injury and family support ahead of his FIFA World Cup 2026 debut.
Vini Jr: World Cup win is Brazil's only mission
Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior stated that winning the World Cup is the team's sole objective, emphasizing that nothing else matters.
Vini Jr: Renewal talk can wait until after World Cup
Real Madrid forward Vinícius Jr. says he will discuss his contract renewal only after the World Cup and the start of next season, as he is currently focused on Brazil.
BBC pundits split over Bosnia goalkeeper's challenge on Canada striker
BBC pundits disagreed on whether Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj should have been sent off for a high punch that struck Canada's Tani Oluwaseyi in the head during a 1-1 World Cup draw. Wayne Rooney argued for a red card, while former assistant referee Darren Cann said the referee made the right call.
