Overzealous soccer fans who turned out to watch the Copa America final between Colombia and Argentina created chaos at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Sunday.
Fans were seen running towards gates near several security checkpoints outside the stadium hours before kick-off. Videos posted on social media showed fans jumping over security railings and running past police officers and stadium-goers.
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Fans wait to enter the stadium before the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia in Miami Gardens, Florida, on July 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Police speak to fans outside the stadium before the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia in Miami Gardens, Florida, July 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
The chaos delayed the start of the game from 8 p.m. ET to 9:15 p.m. ET. Players from both teams were removed from the field as security attempted to control the situation. They re-entered the field around 8:40 p.m. ET to continue warming up before the game.
“In advance of tonight's Copa America final, thousands of ticketless fans attempted to force their way into the stadium, putting other fans, security officers and law enforcement at extreme risk,” a Hard Rock spokesperson said in a statement. “Security has closed the gates to control the entry process at a much slower pace and ensure the safety of everyone.”
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Police patrol the area as fans wait to enter the stadium ahead of the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia on July 14, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Florida. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Hard Rock Stadium urged fans without tickets to leave the stadium.
“It is of utmost importance for a successful and, most importantly, safe match,” the spokesman added.
The Miami-Dade County Police Department also issued a statement regarding the incident.
“These incidents were the result of unruly behavior by fans attempting to gain access to the stadium,” the statement said. “We ask everyone to be patient and respect the rules set forth by our officers and Hard Rock Stadium staff. We are actively working with Hard Rock Stadium to ensure a safe environment for all attendees. Unruly behavior may result in ejection and/or arrest.”
More than 65,000 fans were expected to fill Hard Rock Stadium for the final.
Argentina's Lionel Messi leaves the field after warming up before the Copa America final against Colombia in Miami Gardens, Florida, July 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
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The incident occurred a few days after players and fans brawled following Colombia's victory over Uruguay in the semi-finals.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
