The Government Control Agency (AGC) decided to close the Monumental stadium following the use of fireworks and flares during the reception prior to the match between River and Atlético Mineiro from Brazil in the Copa Libertadores. According to information from the Argentine News Agency, the City Police and the AGC found pyrotechnics in a bathroom designated for people with disabilities.
The use of pyrotechnics was allowed in a specific area of the stadium, with the support of technicians from the fireworks company, for a limited time; however, this authorization was not respected, and pyrotechnic devices were thrown in various sections of the stadium. Following the closure, the Justice will be responsible for determining the corresponding sanctions.
To lift the closure, a procedure must be followed under the supervision of a violations controller from the General Directorate of Administration of Violations of the City, and in this process, the Public Prosecutor will also intervene. It is important to note that River could face sanctions from Conmebol due to these events.
Fireworks and flares were used during the reception of fans at the match between River and Atlético Mineiro, corresponding to the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores. Despite the support, River could not reverse the adverse result of 3-0 in the first leg, which meant their elimination and the loss of the opportunity to be the host in the grand final, where the Monumental was considered one of the possible venues.
In the final of the Copa Libertadores, Atlético Mineiro, led by Argentine Gabriel Milito, will face the winner of the series between Botafogo (Brazil) and Peñarol (Uruguay). Prior to the match, the City Police carried out an operation at the stadium's access points, resulting in the detention of 12 people, the capture of a fugitive from Justice, and the issuance of 317 contravention records.
