Colombia forward Jaminton Campaz has reportedly gone into hiding after receiving death threats following his country’s heartbreaking FIFA World Cup 2026 elimination against Switzerland. The winger is said to have avoided travelling back with his teammates after a wave of abuse and threats emerged on social media in the aftermath of Colombia’s penalty shootout defeat.
The disturbing incident has once again highlighted the darker side of football, with memories resurfacing of Colombian defender Andres Escobar, who was murdered after the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
Jaminton Campaz death threats spark security concerns
According to Argentine publication Infobae, Campaz did not board the same flight as several senior Colombia players, including James Rodriguez, Davinson Sanchez, and Juan Fernando Quintero. His current whereabouts have not been officially disclosed, with reports suggesting he could still be in the United States or may have travelled to Argentina, where he plays for Rosario Central.
The Jaminton Campaz death threats reportedly intensified after the forward missed a crucial opportunity during normal time, with the match eventually ending in a penalty shootout. Switzerland prevailed 4-3 to knock Colombia out of the tournament.
The shocking development has raised serious concerns over player safety, particularly given Colombia’s painful history involving football-related violence.
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Campaz issues emotional message to Colombian supporters
Breaking his silence, Campaz appealed for calm and respect through an emotional message on Instagram. The 26-year-old urged fans not to allow disappointment to turn into hatred, stressing that no sporting result justifies threats or violence.
Reflecting on the tournament, Campaz said representing Colombia at a FIFA World Cup and scoring for his country had fulfilled a lifelong dream. He admitted sharing the nation’s heartbreak after the elimination and apologised for not being able to bring further joy to supporters.
Campaz insisted that neither commitment nor passion for the national jersey had ever been lacking, adding that he gave everything possible on the field.
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Colombian federation condemns abuse after World Cup exit
The Colombian Football Federation strongly condemned the death threats, calling on authorities to investigate those responsible. The federation reminded supporters that football should unite people rather than become a platform for intimidation and abuse.
Officials urged the Attorney General’s office to identify those behind the threats, emphasising that differences over sporting results should never escalate into violence.
Colombia impressed during the competition, topping Group K before defeating Ghana in the Round of 32. Their campaign eventually ended against Switzerland, but the focus has now shifted from football to ensuring the safety of one of the country’s leading players.