Metal detectors, bag checks, biometric scans and drone surveilliance are all expected forms of security when fans attend major sporting events in 2026; however, fans also expect to move swiftly through stadium doors to enjoy the game. That was not the case this week as reported by FIFA fans in Miami.
According to CBS News, fans attending matches in Miami Stadium reported long security wait times and traffic that caused lots of them to miss major moments of the game.
Said one fan, "Knowing that these people spent thousands of dollars to be there and they had to watch the match from their phone is just heartbreaking.”
Security logistics and enhanced security measures appear to be the main cause of the delays. Despite the fan experience, Miami-Dade law enforcement reported no operational issues at security check points.
Related: Copa America Final Delayed Amid Chaos as Fans Storm Hard Rock Stadium Without Tickets
According to NBC Miami, there are seven matches scheduled to take place at Miami Stadium (Hard Rock Stadium). Law enforcement has a special response team standing by, along with aviation units and a special events management team. Local law enforcement are especially focused on drone security during the matches, making sure no fan without a ticket can come anywhere close to the stadium.
"I think the organization should have warned its followers, fans that were going to go see the match, that this is the way things are going to happen in Miami. Therefore, they have to plan ahead,” said another fan who noted that for the next game they attend, they will plan to arrive almost three hours early.
The increased security presence is unsurprising given that at the 2024 Copa America match at Hard Rock Stadium, un-ticketed fans rushed the entrance, climbing into ductwork and causing property damage to the stadium.
“So obviously what happened back then can’t occur again,” said Miami-Dade Sheriff Major Benny Solis. “So, we changed our security posture, and we did extend our perimeter at the Hard Rock Stadium.”
