- Home >
- Soccer >
- CONMEBOL Libertadores >
- Historic Sanction Against River for the Night of the Flares in the Libertadores
Historic Sanction Against River for the Night of the Flares in the Libertadores
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) imposed a severe sanction on Club Atlético River Plate following the incidents that occurred during the second leg of the 2024 Copa Libertadores semifinal against Atlético Mineiro. The spectacular reception organized by the fans at the Monumental Stadium, which included a massive pyrotechnic display, was deemed a serious violation of tournament regulations. As a result, the Argentine club was fined $195,000 and will be required to play one match behind closed doors in the next edition of the tournament.
The financial penalty is broken down into several infractions, including $100,000 for excessive use of flares, $50,000 for racist behavior, and $45,000 for other irregularities. Additionally, River Plate must display anti-racism messages on social media, inside the stadium, and during its next continental match. Although significant, the fine will be deducted from the club’s earnings during this edition of the Libertadores, where it reached the semifinals.
The Monumental witnessed an unforgettable night, but the consequences quickly followed. CONMEBOL’s Disciplinary Committee made it clear that the use of pyrotechnics is a serious breach of safety regulations. However, this punishment is moderate compared to recent cases, such as Peñarol, which was sanctioned with three matches behind closed doors and a larger fine due to repeated violations in similar incidents.
On a local level, River Plate also faced repercussions. The Governmental Control Agency (AGC) ordered the closure of one of the stadium's stands for the team’s next Liga Profesional match and banned celebratory items such as flags and flares. These measures reflect growing concerns over ensuring stadium safety and preventing the use of dangerous elements during matches.
Despite this setback, the team managed by Martín Demichelis still has a chance to secure its participation in the 2025 Libertadores. With a strong performance in the domestic league, the team aims to finish the year with its qualification assured while preparing to comply with the sanctions and move past this controversy that marked its continental campaign.
