Class Action Lawsuit Over Chaos at 2024 Copa América Final
An agreement was reached this Monday in the class action lawsuit filed by fans following the incidents that occurred in the 2024 Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Due to security issues and the chaos prior to 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 jointly pay more than 14 million dollars 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 because fans without tickets broke through security barriers to try to enter the stadium. Stadium staff responded by blocking access to regain control. However, given the dangerous conditions that developed, with some fans in danger of being crushed against the stadium gates, access was reopened, allowing some fans to enter, whether or not they had tickets. When the stadium reached its maximum capacity, the gates were closed again, preventing some fans who did have tickets from entering. Miami-Dade police reported 27 arrests and 55 ejections, while Miami-Dade firefighters attended to 120 incidents at the stadium, 116 of which were related to medical issues. According to the terms of the agreement, the plaintiffs can be classified into one of two categories. The first is for fans who were “denied entry” to the stadium due to the 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 expenses, provided that 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 seats purchased.” 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 will need to file claims, and among the items they will need to submit with the claim are a time-stamped photo or proof of identification, as well as proof of purchase of the tickets, 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 part of the claimed out-of-pocket funds. Fans wishing to participate in the agreement can find instructions at FinalMatchSettlement.com.This case was about standing up for the fans. And today, the plaintiffs and the entire class legal team are proud to offer real relief to the members of the Copa América class action.
Jeff Newsome, attorney at the firm Varnell & Warwick PA
