US Authorities Probe Theft of England World Cup Equipment

US authorities have launched an investigation after equipment belonging to England's national football team was reportedly stolen while being transported to the squad's World Cup training base in Kansas City.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas confirmed that officials at local, state and federal levels are working together to determine where the theft occurred and identify those responsible.

According to reports, footballs, boots and other team equipment were taken after vehicles transporting England's gear from Florida to Kansas City were broken into before reaching the team's training facility at Swope Soccer Village.

In a statement posted on X, titled "Statement on Heist in Transit of English National Team Equipment," Lucas said authorities were informed that items belonging to the England squad had been stolen during the journey.

"Public safety officials at the local, state and federal levels are working to trace where in the United States the items were stolen and all individuals who may have been involved," he said.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the value of the stolen equipment or where the theft is believed to have taken place.

England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, are scheduled to hold their first training session at Swope Soccer Village on Saturday after relocating from their pre-tournament base in Florida.

The Three Lions will begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on Wednesday before facing Ghana and Panama in Group L.