Colombian Federation Condemns Death Threats Against World Cup Player
Translated from Danish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Colombian World Cup player Jaminton Campaz and his family have received death threats.
- The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) condemned the threats and urged authorities to investigate and prosecute those responsible.
- The FCF emphasized that football should be a space for unity and respect, not hate or violence, and called for an end to such threats.
The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) has issued a strong condemnation of death threats directed at World Cup player Jaminton Campaz and his family. The federation expressed its outrage on its website, calling on national authorities to swiftly investigate, prosecute, and punish those responsible for the threats.
"Football should be a space for unity, respect, and hope โ never an arena for hate, intimidation, or violence," the FCF stated. The federation urged all Colombians to ensure that disagreements arising from sports and competition never escalate into threats or abuse against those who represent the country.
Football should be a space for unity, respect, and hope โ never an arena for hate, intimidation, or violence.
Campaz, 26, who plays for Rosario in Argentina, came onto the field in the second half of the round of 16 match against Switzerland. He missed a significant opportunity late in extra time that could have secured Colombia's advancement. The match ultimately ended in a 0-0 draw, and Colombia was eliminated after a penalty shootout, though Campaz successfully converted his attempt.
Football also consists of difficult moments. Now it's only about learning, getting up, and continuing the work to come back stronger.
Reflecting on the World Cup exit, Campaz shared his pain on Instagram, reaffirming his commitment and thanking supporters. He appealed for understanding, stating, "Football also consists of difficult moments. Now it's only about learning, getting up, and continuing the work to come back stronger." He added, "My Colombia, let's never forget respect. We can think differently and feel frustration or sorrow, but no passion justifies hate or living in fear."
The FCF's statement implicitly references the tragic murder of Andres Escobar in 1994, who was shot and killed days after scoring an own goal in a World Cup match against the USA, which led to Colombia's early exit. The federation's firm stance aims to prevent any recurrence of such violence and to foster a safer environment for athletes.
My Colombia, let's never forget respect. We can think differently and feel frustration or sorrow, but no passion justifies hate or living in fear.
Originally published by Berlingske in Danish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.