The head of the Colombian Football Federation, Ramón Jesurún, and his son, Ramón Jamil, were arrested following a brawl at the Copa América final in Miami on Sunday. The altercation occurred after Colombia’s narrow 0-1 loss to Argentina in extra time.
According to the Miami-Dade Police Department, the 71-year-old Ramón Jesurún and his 43-year-old son were charged with battery involving an official or employee. The incident took place at the Hard Rock Stadium shortly after the match ended. Neither Jesurún nor his son have publicly commented on the charges.
In a statement to the BBC, the Miami-Dade Police detailed the events leading to the arrests. Jesurún and his son were reportedly walking towards the entrance of the field when they began shouting at a security officer. The officer, following management instructions to temporarily delay further access, placed an open palm on the chest of Jesurún’s son to guide him back. This action reportedly incited Jesurún to push the officer while his son grabbed the officer’s neck, pulling him to the ground and assaulting him by punching and kicking him in the head.
Additionally, Jesurún’s son allegedly grabbed and pushed a female official who attempted to assist and punched a security manager. The two men were believed to be trying to access the pitch to participate in the awards ceremony.
The Colombian Football Federation has not issued an immediate comment on the incident.
The final of South America’s premier football tournament was already marred by a delay of 80 minutes caused by ticketless fans forcing their way into the stadium. Several arrests were made following clashes with police and security personnel, and numerous supporters required medical attention from paramedics.
This incident adds another layer of controversy to what was meant to be a celebration of football, highlighting the tensions and challenges that can arise in high-stakes international sports events.
#colombian #football #news #copaamerica #arrested #headcoach #sportznews #newssportz #footballnews