Copa chaos poses security concerns for World Cup

The chaotic scenes at the Copa America final have raised serious questions for the organisers of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in North America.

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The start of the July 14 final between Colombia and Argentina at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium was delayed by 82 minutes as overwhelmed security struggled to process the safe entry of fans into the stadium.

Organisers blamed ticketless fans rushing through entry points at the venue for their decision to keep the gates closed for almost three hours after the planned opening time.

But, while there was plenty of evidence of ticketless fans entering, it was also clear that the security system was unable to cope.

Some fans needed medical attention for heat exhaustion after being stuck in the crush around the fencing at the entrance to the 65,000-capacity venue amid alarming scenes.

Meanwhile, Colombian Football Federation president Ramon Jesurun has been released on bail following his arrest at the final, according to videos published in Colombian media on July 15.