Copa America final chaos raises concerns for 2026 World Cup

The 2024 Copa America final between Colombia and Argentina at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on July 15 was delayed for 82 minutes as security struggled to contain the overflow of fans entering the stadium. Organizers blamed ticketless fans for the decision to close the gates early.

Chaos in Copa America final

But, while there was plenty of evidence of fans without tickets jumping through gates to get into the stadium, it was also clear that the security system could not cope.

Several fans needed medical attention for heat exhaustion after being trapped by crowds crowding around barriers at the entrance to the 65,000-capacity stadium amid alarming scenes. The incident led to dozens of arrests.

Hard Rock Stadium will host seven matches at the 2026 World Cup, which the United States co-hosts with Mexico and Canada.

Copa America 2024 will be organized by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) while the 2026 World Cup will be run by FIFA and the federations of the three countries.

Many Colombian fans arrested

"It's not a good look," said former U.S. international Alexi Lalas, now a top television commentator for Fox Sports. "I understand that it's not a good look for CONMEBOL and for us because it's happening under our watch, in our country, it's not a good look for the U.S. with the World Cup less than two years away," Lalas stressed.

FIFA, which has no role in running the Copa America, has not commented on the incidents but sources said it would now step up discussions with stadiums about security plans to keep the 2026 World Cup safe.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/su-hon-loan-o-chung-ket-copa-america-lam-day-len-lo-ngai-cho-world-cup-2026-185240716091701004.htm