Colombia midfielder Jáminton Campaz and his family have been threatened with death following the national team's exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Reasons Behind the Death Threats
Colombia's journey in the tournament concluded on Tuesday with a defeat in a penalty shootout against Switzerland in the round of 16. During extra time, Campaz — who is affiliated with Argentine club Rosario Central — squandered a vital scoring chance when his attempt went astray.
In the aftermath of the match, the athlete's social media profiles were inundated with derogatory comments and threats. He opted to restrict comments on his platforms and, as a precautionary measure, did not board the return flight to his homeland with his teammates.
“No athlete, nor anyone within their close circle, should face intimidation for representing their nation on a competitive stage,” stated the federation in an official release.
On Instagram, Campaz posted a picture of himself with his face covered in despair, accompanied by a call for respect.
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“Football encompasses challenging moments as well,” he expressed. “My Colombia, let us always uphold respect. We may have differing opinions or experience frustration and sorrow, but no passion warrants hatred or living in fear.”
Colombia Football Federation Demands Investigation
In light of the harassment, the Colombian federation has urged the nation’s attorney general’s office to accelerate an inquiry to pinpoint those responsible for the threats.
“Football should be a realm of unity, respect, and hope — never a venue for hatred, intimidation, or violence,” the federation asserted, encouraging fans to ensure that disappointments in sports do not manifest as real-life aggression.
A Repeat of Andres Escobar's Tragedy?
The threats bring to mind a grim episode in Colombian soccer history. During the 1994 World Cup hosted by the United States, defender Andrés Escobar inadvertently scored an own-goal in a 2-1 defeat to the host team. Days later, after the team’s return home, Escobar was tragically murdered in Medellín.
