Costa Rica Players Dropped For England Friendly Following Alleged Gun Incident

Three players from the Costa Rica national team have been dropped for misconduct ahead of their international friendlies against Colombia and England.

Hearts forward Kenneth Vargas, Warren Madrigal of MLS club Nashville SC, and LD Alajuelense midfielder Alejandro Bran will miss the match against Colombia on 1 June in Bogotá, as well as the fixture against England on 10 June in Orlando.

Local authorities are currently investigating an alleged shooting incident that occurred early Monday in the Los Yoses neighbourhood of San José, where Bran’s vehicle was struck by multiple bullets during a dispute outside a bar.

While the Costa Rica Football Federation (FCRF) did not reference the shooting directly, they stated that Bran was removed from the squad for the upcoming friendlies due to “the necessary conditions for his continued participation with the team not being met.”

Shortly thereafter, the FCRF issued another statement confirming the exclusion of Vargas and Madrigal from the training camp.

“This decision adheres to the established guidelines for all members of the national teams,” the statement read. “The FCRF emphasises that discipline and respect for the rules are fundamental pillars for all our national teams. These values are essential to the responsibility that comes with representing our country.”

In addition, LD Alajuelense has taken action against Bran and Vargas, who is currently on loan from Hearts until 31 December.

“Liga Deportiva Alajuelense announces that, following a thorough review of recent events and in strict compliance with our institution’s principles, we have decided to immediately separate players Alejandro Bran and Kenneth Vargas from the organisation,” the club stated.

Costa Rica did not qualify for the 2026 World Cup and appointed Fernando Batista as the national team coach in March, signing him to a contract that extends through to the 2030 World Cup.