The 2024 Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens was marred by significant delays and chaotic scenes outside the venue. The match, originally scheduled for 8:00 PM, didn’t kick off until 9:22 PM due to a near-disaster at the stadium gates. So, Why Was Copa America Delayed? A confluence of factors contributed to the 82-minute delay.
Unruly Fans and Overwhelmed Security
Hard Rock Stadium officials cited “unruly behavior” from ticketless fans attempting to force their way into the stadium as the primary reason for the delay. These attempts to overwhelm security and law enforcement led to the closure of several stadium gates.
Fans had been instructed to arrive early, with no outside watch parties permitted. However, large crowds began gathering hours before the scheduled kickoff. Several arrests were made for fence-hopping and attempts to enter without tickets. The situation escalated as fans, frustrated by the closed gates and the intense heat, pushed forward, creating dangerous crushes.
Gate Closures and Re-Openings Exacerbate the Problem
The strategic closure and re-opening of gates, intended to manage the flow of ticketed fans, only seemed to worsen the situation. The sporadic, one-by-one entry process further agitated the crowd, leading to more pushing and shoving. Children, separated from their guardians, were seen crying and distressed. Many fans suffered from heat exhaustion, requiring medical attention.
A Breakdown in Security Protocol Leads to Uncontrolled Entry
Around 8:15 PM, amidst the chaos, a decision was made to open the gates completely for a short period to prevent serious injuries. This resulted in a massive influx of people, many without tickets, flooding into the stadium. While the intention was to alleviate the dangerous crush outside, it led to further security issues inside. Videos surfaced showing fans bypassing security altogether, climbing fences and even crawling through ceiling openings.
The Aftermath and Looking Towards the Future
The delayed kickoff significantly impacted the game itself, with players warming up and then retreating as the situation unfolded. Even family members of players were caught in the melee, further highlighting the severity of the disorganization. The chaotic scenes raised serious concerns about security protocols and preparedness for large-scale events at Hard Rock Stadium, especially considering its role in hosting multiple matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Local officials promised a full review of the events, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Copa America final delay served as a stark reminder of the importance of effective crowd control and security measures for major sporting events. The incident left many questioning the preparedness of Hard Rock Stadium for future international tournaments.
