Fact-check: Viral 'sniper' video at 2026 World Cup stadium actually filmed in Uzbekistan

A viral video claiming to show snipers deployed at stadiums for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States has been debunked. Verification of the footage showed it has no connection to the US and was instead recorded in May 2026 at Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. The footage was captured at an event marking Uzbekistan's national football team's first-ever qualification for the World Cup. Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attended the event, and the armed individuals seen in the stadium were members of the presidential protection unit, according to the clarification. Analysts found that the video had been edited with added sound effects intended to mislead viewers. The claim linking the footage to the US tournament was described as inaccurate, with no evidence supporting the original assertion.