Colombian international Jáminton Campaz has reportedly gone into hiding after receiving death threats following Colombia’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 26-year-old forward became the target of online abuse after missing a crucial scoring opportunity during Colombia’s Round of 16 clash against Switzerland.
The match ended 0-0 after extra time before Switzerland progressed with a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout. Although Campaz successfully converted his penalty, his earlier miss drew widespread criticism and threats directed at him and his family.
Campaz, who plays for Argentine club Rosario Central, reportedly did not return to Colombia with the rest of the national team, choosing instead to remain in a secure location for his safety. He has also restricted comments on his social media accounts.
In a message posted on Instagram, Campaz apologised to Colombian fans for the team’s World Cup exit, saying he gave everything to represent his country. He urged supporters not to allow football to become a source of hatred or violence and called for respect despite the disappointment of elimination.
The Colombian Football Federation condemned the death threats and expressed its full support for the player.
The federation called on authorities to investigate those responsible, stressing that no footballer should face intimidation or violence for representing the national team.
The incident has revived memories of the 1994 killing of Colombian defender Andrés Escobar after the FIFA World Cup, highlighting the continuing dangers of abuse and threats faced by footballers after major tournaments. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.
