Class Action Lawsuit Over Chaos at 2024 Copa América Final
An agreement was reached on Monday in the class action lawsuit filed by fans following the incidents at the 2024 Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Due to the problems with the crowd before the start of the match, some fans with tickets were unable to enter the stadium, while others left early for fear of their safety. These fans are expected to be the majority of those who file claims. CONMEBOL, Concacaf, Best Security and South Florida Stadium LLC, owner and operator of Hard Rock Stadium, were the defendants in the lawsuit. According to the terms of the agreement, the defendants will collectively pay more than $14 million to a fund that fans affected by the problems in the final can access, although the final payment will depend on the number of people who file claims.The match between Argentina and Colombia was delayed 82 minutes when ticketless fans broke through security barriers to enter the stadium. Stadium staff responded by closing the venue to regain control. However, when dangerous conditions developed, with some fans in danger of being crushed against the stadium gates, the venue reopened, allowing some fans to enter, whether or not they had tickets. When the stadium reached capacity, the gates were closed again, preventing some ticketed fans from entering. Miami-Dade police declared that there were 27 arrests and 55 ejections, while Miami-Dade firefighters reported that they responded to 120 incidents at the stadium, 116 of which were related to medical attention. According to the terms of the agreement, the plaintiffs can be placed in one of two categories. The first is for fans who were “denied entry” to the stadium due to crowd problems. These fans may receive a maximum refund of $2,000 per person. If the fan in question paid less than $2,000 for their ticket, they can also file a claim for a refund of up to $300 in travel-related expenses, as long as the maximum of $2,000 is not exceeded. The other category is for fans who were “denied full access and enjoyment of Hard Rock Stadium facilities or specific purchased seats.” This includes the purchase of concessions or merchandise, which was suspended due to overcrowding conditions. That amount will be limited to $100 per person. Fans affected by the chaos at the final must submit claims, and among the items they must submit with the claim are a time-stamped photo or proof of identification, as well as proof of ticket purchase and a statement that they were denied entry or full access to the stadium. They must also state that they have not received a refund for any portion of their claimed out-of-pocket funds. Fans who wish to participate in the agreement can find the instructions at FinalMatchSettlement.com.This case was about defending the fans. And today, the named plaintiffs and the entire class counsel team are proud to deliver real relief to the class members of the Copa América class action lawsuit.
Jeff Newsome, attorney at the firm Varnell & Warwick PA
