Leo Paradizo, a journalist from the Argentine private television channel TN, was removed along with his cameraman, Diego Spairani, while broadcasting live during the chaotic events leading up to the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia this Sunday at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The incident occurred just moments before the match began when Conmebol decided to close all stadium entrances and allowed both teams to take the field. At that point, a security guard approached and pushed Paradizo, who was interviewing fans on the other side of the fence, many of whom had tickets. The journalist complied, relocating to another spot to continue talking with fans left outside the grand final.
Suddenly, one of the entrances opened, and a group of Colombian and Argentine fans rushed in. Miami police attempted to control the influx of fans, whether they had tickets or not, who were entering in front of the television cameras. In a swift move, a group of female police officers pushed and cornered the Argentine journalist into a corner, while other officers blocked the live broadcast.
"Why are you kicking us out? We're working," Paradizo repeated as he was forced to leave. Moments later, the broadcast signal was cut. Some individuals were detained, thrown to the ground, and subdued with Taser guns.
"It was a moment, just to reassure everyone, that we are okay. We were always okay. We understand the limit where our physical integrity is at risk, and we knew to recognize that limit to avoid further issues," Paradizo said shortly after, criticizing the manner in which they were expelled from the stadium despite being accredited.
"We were kicked out, but we didn't disrespect anyone. We were on the side of the people, showing what was happening, and we received physical aggression from those controlling the access. We were removed in a very bad manner. It wasn't disobedience to authority. The way they kicked us out, as if we were criminals, was not right. We were doing journalism, our job, showing what was happening," he concluded.
FAQs About the Incident at Hard Rock Stadium
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding the incident involving journalist Leo Paradizo and the events at Hard Rock Stadium during the Copa America final.
Why was Leo Paradizo removed from Hard Rock Stadium?
Leo Paradizo was removed from Hard Rock Stadium while covering the Copa America final due to the chaotic influx of fans, despite being an accredited journalist.
What happened during the incident at the Copa America final?
During the incident, security closed all entrances, and a group of fans rushed in, leading to police intervention. Paradizo and his cameraman were physically removed by police officers while broadcasting live.
How did Leo Paradizo react to being expelled?
Leo Paradizo criticized the manner in which they were expelled, stating they did not disrespect anyone and were only doing their job as journalists.