Chaos at Copa America final prompts security concerns for 2026 World Cup

Local authorities in Miami, Florida, vowed to review and improve security protocols after thousands of ticketless fans stormed the gates of Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens ahead of the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia on Sunday, July 14. The resulting chaos caused officials to delay the start of the game 75 minutes as police and security fought to get the crowd under control.

As people attempted to access the stadium, security teams removed players from the field and thousands of fans already inside had to wait as a delay ensued. Police reportedly arrested several people, and several others sustained injuries during the incident.

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Miami Mayor Daniella Levine Cava condemned the fans’ actions. Large groups of people pushed through gates, hopped fences and reportedly trampled other people to avoid police and security.

Officials assigned 550 officers to the match with a predicted crowd of more than 65,000 fans. Sunday’s incident during the Copa America final raised security concerns about the venue’s ability to handle crowds during the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Organizers selected the Hard Rock Stadium to host matches during the event.

Eventually, security teams brought the crowd under control and fans could safely enter the stadium. Players returned to the field and the match began.

Argentina ultimately came out victorious, beating Colombia 1-0 to win its 16th Copa America title.