Rosario Central have been sanctioned by CONMEBOL following the racist incidents reported during their Copa Libertadores round-of-16 first leg against Corinthians at the Gigante de Arroyito.
Rosario Central Sanctioned Over Racist Acts Against Corinthians
CONMEBOL fined the Argentine club $100,000 for racist abuse during its Copa Libertadores match against Corinthians, with additional sanctions taking the club's total penalties to $145,000.
The South American governing body imposed a $100,000 fine on the Argentine club for violating Article 15.2 of its Disciplinary Code, which covers discriminatory conduct based on factors including skin color, race, ethnicity and nationality.
The incident occurred during the second half of the goalless draw on August 13. Corinthians goalkeeper Hugo Souza approached referee Andrés Matonte and reported that he was receiving racist abuse from sections of the home crowd.
The anti-racism protocol was activated before the match resumed.
CONMEBOL's punishment
The $100,000 fine is not the only measure imposed on Rosario Central.
At their next home match in a CONMEBOL competition, the club must display the anti-discrimination message "El Respeto es Titular" as part of the pre-match protocol and on the stadium screen.
Rosario Central must also promote the campaign on their official social media channels during the three days leading up to their next continental home fixture.
CONMEBOL's disciplinary regulations establish significantly higher financial penalties in the event of repeat discriminatory offenses.
Total fines reach $145,000
The racist incidents were the most serious offense, but Rosario Central were also punished for other violations during the match.
The club received additional fines totaling $45,000: $32,000 for delays related to the match protocol, $8,000 for the use of flares or pyrotechnics and $5,000 for objects thrown onto the pitch.
That takes Rosario Central's total financial punishment to $145,000.
Head coach Jorge Almirón was separately fined $50,000 for his responsibility in the team's delayed return to the field.
After the match, Corinthians publicly condemned the incidents and requested an investigation to identify and punish those responsible.
Rosario Central initially responded by questioning the accusations and requesting conclusive evidence, while also announcing that it would review stadium footage to identify those involved.
CONMEBOL's disciplinary process has now concluded with a significant financial sanction and mandatory anti-discrimination measures for the Argentine club.
