England’s preparations for the FIFA 2026 World Cup have suffered an unexpected setback after training equipment and kits were reportedly stolen before the team arrived in Kansas City.
- +England training kits, boots stolen ahead of World Cup 2026 arrival
The Football Association (FA) is working to establish the full extent of the theft after vehicles transporting equipment to England’s training base at Swope Soccer Village were allegedly broken into on Friday.
The Football Association (FA) is working to establish the full extent of the theft after vehicles transporting equipment to England’s training base at Swope Soccer Village were allegedly broken into on Friday.
Training balls, boots and other essential equipment are among the items feared to have been taken ahead of the Three Lions’ arrival in Kansas City on Saturday.
England manager Thomas Tuchel and his squad were due to arrive later on Saturday, with the equipment scheduled to be in place before the team reached their World Cup base.
Police officers attended the scene on Friday night and are understood to be working closely with FA officials as the investigation continues. According to reports, two arrests have already been made in connection with the incident.
A spokesman for Kansas police confirmed the investigation was ongoing.
“We are investigating a possible theft of equipment from a team vehicle that arrived in Kansas City with items missing this evening. The investigation is ongoing,” the spokesman said.
England are scheduled to undertake their first full training session on Sunday as they begin final preparations for their World Cup campaign.
While the FA continues to assess the extent of the losses, officials will be hoping the disruption does not distract the squad as they target a strong start in their quest for a first World Cup title since 1966.
