The Colombian Soccer Federation has demanded an investigation into death threats made against midfielder Jaminton Campaz and his family after Colombia's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Campaz missed a critical scoring opportunity in extra time during Colombia's Round of 16 penalty shootout loss to Switzerland earlier this week. Following the match, his social media accounts were inundated with negative comments and threats. As a precaution, Campaz limited social media interactions and did not join his teammates on the return flight to Colombia.

The federation condemned the intimidation, emphasizing that "no athlete, nor any member of their camp, should be subjected to intimidation for representing their country in a sporting context." They called on fans to ensure that sporting disappointments do not lead to real-world aggression, stating, "Football must be a space for unity, respect, and hope — never a setting for hatred, intimidation or violence."

This call for investigation echoes the tragic murder of Andres Escobar, who was killed in Medellin days after Colombia's 2-1 loss to the United States during the 1994 World Cup. The federation highlighted the painful reminder of Escobar's death 32 years ago and urged respect despite frustration and sadness, saying, "My Colombia, please let us never lose sight of respect. We may think differently or feel frustration and sadness, but no passion justifies hatred or living in fear."

The Colombian team, including players Johan Mojica, Luis Diaz, Jaminton Campaz, and Yerry Mina, faced Switzerland at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada, on July 7, 2026.

Sources