Chaos at Copa America Spurs Security Review for 2026 World Cup

Miami-Dade County in Florida will review security protocols for the 2026 World Cup following a chaotic scene at the Copa America final, where over two dozen fans were arrested and security breached. The review is aimed at ensuring safety and addressing the lapses that led to the disorder.

Miami-Dade County in Florida will review security protocols for the 2026 World Cup in response to the chaotic events at Sunday's Copa America final, which saw over two dozen fans arrested. The incident occurred as fans without tickets rushed security at the Hard Rock Stadium, leading to a highly disorganized scene.

Authorities reacted by initiating a lockdown, leaving hundreds of fans stranded outside in extreme heat. The match between Argentina and Colombia, managed by South American football governing body CONMEBOL, was delayed by over an hour due to the disorder. Chief of Public Safety for Miami-Dade County, James Reyes, confirmed that law enforcement responded effectively to the dangerous situation.

Reyes added that a comprehensive review of all safety and security protocols is underway as preparations continue for the upcoming World Cup. Colombian federation president Ramon Jesurun and his son were among those arrested for fighting security personnel, facing multiple felony charges. The review comes as a critical measure to ensure such lapses do not reoccur.

(With inputs from agencies.)