The aftermath of the Copa América 2024 final between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami has resulted in a flurry of legal actions and widespread criticism. Fans without tickets forced their way into the stadium, causing chaos, injuries, and preventing some ticket holders from entering.At least four lawsuits have been filed against the stadium operator, CONMEBOL (the South American Football Confederation), and CONCACAF (the North American, Central American, and Caribbean Football Confederation). The lawsuits cite inadequate security measures and demand compensation for injuries and denied entry. Lawyer Judd Rosen, representing an injured woman, stated, ‘This was a robbery of money. All the money that should have been spent on a proper security plan and adequate security personnel went into their pockets’.In a separate development, CONMEBOL has opened a disciplinary case against Uruguay’s coach Marcelo Bielsa for his critical comments about the tournament’s organization. Bielsa had expressed concerns about spectator safety and criticized the handling of security issues during the competition.Meanwhile, the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) is reportedly in talks with Rafael Márquez to join as an assistant coach to Javier Aguirre, with the possibility of taking over as head coach after the 2026 World Cup. This comes after the federation’s decision to part ways with Jaime Lozano following a disappointing performance in the 2024 Copa América.In Brazil, former player and coach Jorginho has publicly criticized the current national team’s attitude following their elimination from the Copa América. At an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of Brazil’s 1994 World Cup victory, Jorginho compared the current team’s reaction to defeat with that of his generation, stating, ‘If you don’t feel the pain of defeat, you’re not qualified to celebrate victory’.
Key points
- Multiple lawsuits filed against Copa América 2024 organizers due to security failures at the final.
- CONMEBOL opens disciplinary case against Uruguay’s coach Marcelo Bielsa for criticizing tournament organization.
- Mexican Football Federation in talks with Rafael Márquez for assistant coach position.
- Former Brazilian player Jorginho criticizes current national team’s attitude after Copa América elimination.
Contradictions👾There are conflicting reports about Rafael Márquez’s potential role with the Mexican national team.
While some sources indicate ongoing talks, others suggest he has already accepted the position.
