Following Real Madrid’s lead through Eder Militao during a recent match, tensions erupted at the Estadio Metropolitano, with some Atlético Madrid fans directing their frustration at goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
What began with minor disruptions quickly escalated as plastic bottles, lighters, and even a bag of trash were hurled towards the Real Madrid goalkeeper from the stands.
Despite multiple warnings from the referee, the situation worsened, forcing the official to temporarily suspend the game for 15 minutes to restore order.
In light of the incident, the RFEF (Royal Spanish Football Federation) swiftly responded with disciplinary action. Atlético Madrid have been handed a three-match partial stadium closure, specifically targeting the “Fondo Sur” section of their home ground, from where the majority of the projectiles were thrown.
Additionally, the club has been fined €45,000 (approximately £37,000 or $49,000). The ruling is viewed as a firm statement by the federation, underscoring that such behavior will not be tolerated within Spanish football.
In the immediate aftermath, Atlético Madrid have moved to enforce further sanctions on those responsible. The club announced a lifetime ban for one fan identified as a key perpetrator, caught throwing objects onto the pitch.
Additionally, Atlético is working closely with local law enforcement to identify and punish other individuals involved in the disorder. The club has also pledged to make revisions to its stadium policies to prevent such incidents from recurring.
Among the measures announced is a ban on clothing, such as balaclavas, that can conceal a fan’s identity—a factor that contributed to the chaos during the derby.
The partial closure of the “Fondo Sur” section will impact three upcoming Atlético home games, specifically against Leganés, Las Palmas, and Alavés.
Despite the punishment, Atlético Madrid reserves the right to appeal the RFEF’s decision. Meanwhile, the club will soon turn its attention back to the pitch, with a crucial Champions League fixture against Benfica approaching.
These events mark a pivotal moment for Atlético Madrid, as both the federation and the club take serious measures to ensure the safety of players and to promote better behavior in Spanish football stadiums.