The poor level of football at the Copa América was combined with playing fields in very poor condition and serious organisational problems in the host country.
The county of Miamiin Florida, will review the security protocol for the World Cup 2026after dozens of fans were arrested on Sunday at the final of the America Cupat the culmination of a tournament plagued by controversies that cast a shadow of doubt over the biggest event of the soccer looking ahead to two years.
According to organizers, fans without tickets attacked security officers and tried to force their way into Hard Rock Stadium, leading to a chaotic scene at one of the future venues of the world. Police closed the stadium and hundreds of fans were trapped outside in sweltering heat as the Conmebol repeatedly delayed the match between Argentina and Colombia.
Finally, the match started more than an hour late. “Last night, our law enforcement responded quickly to deal with an extremely difficult and dangerous situation that put the lives of those in attendance at risk.”said in a statement James Reyeschief of public safety for the county of Miami. “We are working with the event organisers to conduct a thorough review of all safety and security protocols as we continue to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.”.
Did they underestimate the Copa America final?
There were 27 arrests and 55 people were ejected. More than 800 law enforcement officers were present at the stadium, which is home to the National Football League’s Miami Dolphins and is accustomed to hosting crowds at major sporting events, such as the Super Bowl four years ago.
A source with knowledge of security plans told Reuters security was more lax for the Copa America soccer final than for a 2020 NFL championship game, where fans were not allowed to approach stadium entrances without showing a pass at an outer perimeter.
Hard Rock Stadium did not immediately respond to a request for comment on its security plans, but said in an earlier statement that it had “more than twice” the staff on Sunday than it would for a typical event. The stadium has a capacity of more than 65,000.
Source: Ambito
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