Colombian Football Head Arrested on Battery Charge After Copa América Final

Ramón Jesurún, the President of the Colombian Football Federation, and his son, Ramón Jamil Jesurún, have been arrested on charges of battery following an altercation at the Copa América final in Miami. The Miami-Dade Police Department reported that the incident occurred after Colombia’s 0-1 loss to Argentina in extra time at the Hard Rock Stadium.

The charges stem from a brawl involving an official or employee. According to the police, Mr. Jesurún and his son became irate and began shouting at a security officer who was instructed to temporarily delay access to the field. The situation escalated when the officer placed an open palm on the chest of Mr. Jesurún’s son to guide him back. Mr. Jesurún then pushed the officer, while his son allegedly grabbed the officer’s neck, pulled him to the ground, and kicked him in the head. Additionally, Mr. Jesurún’s son reportedly pushed a female official who attempted to intervene.

The Colombian Football Federation has not issued any immediate comments on the incident. The brawl added to the chaos of the final, which had already been delayed by 80 minutes due to ticketless fans forcing their way into the stadium. Several arrests were made, and paramedics treated multiple supporters following clashes with police and security personnel.

Neither Mr. Jesurún nor his son has publicly commented on the charges. The Miami-Dade Police Department provided a detailed account of the incident, emphasizing the physical aggression displayed by both men. This incident has cast a shadow over what was supposed to be a celebrated sporting event, highlighting issues of crowd control and security at major events.