Colombia Soccer Chief Arrested Amid Copa América Crowd Disruption
Sports | July 16, 2024, 12:44 a.m.
The head of the Colombian soccer federation, Ramón Jesurún, and his son were arrested after an altercation with event security personnel at the Miami-area stadium following his nation’s loss to Argentina in the Copa América final. Both were charged with battery on specified officials/employees and detained early Monday morning. The chaotic night at Hard Rock Stadium saw gates closed due to an overwhelming rush of attendees, leading to delays and arrests. With more than 800 law enforcement officers making 27 arrests, the situation escalated as Jesurún allegedly became aggressive when told to wait before going onto the field. CONMEBOL expressed regret over the violence and stated that the stadium authorities were responsible for security operations. The arrests have not been commented on by the Colombian federation, where Jesurún holds significant positions in international soccer governing bodies.