On Saturday, a soccer fan tragically lost his life after falling from his box seat at the Estadio Banorte ahead of a World Cup friendly. Mexico plans to co-host this summer’s tournament with the United States and Canada.
After a series of renovations, Estadio Banorte reopened this weekend to host the match between Mexico and Portugal. However, the huge comeback at the iconic stadium was marred by tragedy.
According to Reuters, the man climbed onto the outside of the building and tried to get down to the first floor before falling from the second floor of the VIP box. Authorities claim the person was intoxicated and sadly collapsed on the first floor while being transported.
“The Mexico City Prosecutor’s Office (Fiscaria CDMX) deeply regrets the death of a person inside the Banorte Stadium on Saturday, March 28, before the start of a friendly match for the Mexican national team,” said a statement released on social media.
“From the outset, officials from the Attorney General’s Office, forensic experts, and investigative police personnel were present at the scene and initiated the necessary investigation.
“The area was cordoned off, the scene was secured and evidence was collected by experts specializing in criminology, photography and forensics.
“Furthermore, analysis of CCTV footage from the stadium and its entrances is underway, as well as the collection of testimonies from those present at the scene, with the aim of accurately reconstructing the sequence of events and identifying potential culprits.
“Similarly, statutory post-mortem procedures are currently underway to ensure that the cause of death and physical condition at the time of the fall are established.
“The Mexico City Public Prosecutor’s Office will continue its thorough investigation and keep the public informed of any relevant developments, strictly in accordance with due process principles.”
The opening ceremony of the World Cup is scheduled for June 11th at the Estadio Banorte, with Mexico hosting South Africa to kick off the tournament. The ground will also be the first venue to host matches across three different World Cups.
In addition to the matches on June 11, the stadium will also host Uzbekistan vs. Colombia in the group phase, Mexico vs. the Czech Republic or Denmark, Round of 32 draws and last-16 matches.
Saturday’s match between Mexico and Portugal proceeded as scheduled despite the incident, resulting in a goalless stalemate for both sides.
