Fans sneak into Hard Rock Stadium ventilation system without tickets for Copa America 2024 final

Ahead of Sunday's Copa America final at Hard Rock Stadium between Argentina and Colombia, fans without tickets scaled fences and evaded security, arriving over an hour before kickoff.

As a result, the match's kickoff was delayed until 9:15 p.m. ET.

Around 2 a.m. ET on Monday, a spokesperson for the stadium announced that officials, along with CONMEBOL, CONCACAF, and law enforcement, made the decision to open all stadium gates to avoid potential stampedes and serious injuries.

Although the gates were shut once the risk was mitigated, the stadium reached its full capacity and remained closed thereafter.

The statement said: “We understand there are disappointed ticket holders who were not able to enter the stadium after the perimeter was closed, and we will work in partnership with CONMEBOL to address those individual concerns.”

“Ultimately, there is nothing more important than the health and safety of all guests and staff, and that will always remain our priority.”

According to one law enforcement officer, between 10 to 15 individuals were taken into custody. Other fans attempting unauthorized entry were escorted away from the gates but were not detained.

Fans were also captured on video illicitly entering the stadium through the ventilation system.

There were also instances of damage occurring within the stadium.

Miami-Dade Police issued a statement noting: "We have had several incidents prior to the gates opening at Hard Rock Stadium for the Copa America final game. These incidents have been a result of the unruly behavior of fans trying to access the stadium."

"We are asking everyone to be patient, and abide by the rules set by our officers and Hard Rock Stadium personnel.”

Hard Rock Stadium instructed fans not to arrive without tickets before the match. Entry was restricted at one side of the southwest gate, causing congestion as fans were directed to the only open entrance, resulting in a slow entry process.

As fans gathered outside the stadium gates, a few were permitted entry upon showing their match tickets. Many reported difficulty breathing due to the crowded conditions and pushing among the crowds.