The Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia has had to be delayed by more than an hour due to fans without tickets attempting "to forcibly enter the stadium".

Thousands of fans tried to enter the stadium in Miami, forcing the gates to the venue to be shut due to safety concerns.

"In anticipation of tonight's Copa America Final, thousands of fans without tickets attempted to forcibly enter the stadium, putting other fans, security and law enforcement officers at extreme risk," a stadium spokesperson said in a statement. 

"Security has shut the gates in order to control the entry process at a much slower rate and ensure everyone is kept safe."

The tournament was marred by ugly scenes following Colombia's semifinal win over Uruguay, when Uruguayan players and Colombian fans began fighting in the stands. 

The final in Miami was scheduled to begin at 10am AEST, but did not kick off until about 11:20am.

Media reports have said many fans without tickets were left stranded outside as the game began.

Footage shows thousands of people rushing through the gates and climbing over fences.