Colombia Condemns Death Threats Against Footballer Campaz
Colombia's football federation condemned death threats against striker Haminton Campaz after he missed a crucial penalty in the team's World Cup elimination, invoking the memory of a 1994 own-goal tragedy that ended in murder.
The Colombian Football Federation has condemned individuals who sent death threats to striker Haminton Campaz and his family following the team's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16. Colombia drew 0-0 with Switzerland in 120 minutes before losing 3-4 on penalties. During extra time, Campaz had a clear chance in the penalty area facing the goalkeeper but shot wide in a shocking miss.
Following the match, Campaz and his family received death threats from fans. The forward, who plays for Rosario Central in Argentina's league, posted on Instagram calling for people to show respect and prevent football passion from breeding hatred and fear.
The Colombian Football Federation released a statement declaring: "No athlete or national team member deserves to be threatened simply for representing their country. Football must be a space for unity, respect, and hope—not a place for hatred, threats, or violence. We call on all Colombians to stand together and ensure that what happens on the field of play does not transform into threats or attacks on those dedicated to representing our nation."
The statement also recalled the 1994 World Cup tragedy when defender Andrés Escobar, who scored an own goal against the United States, was shot and killed by gunmen just days after Colombia's elimination and his return home.
