Atlético Madrid takes action: Lifetime stadium bans for those identified after derby incident

After the tumultuous riots at the Madrid Derby on September 29, Atletico Madrid has announced a crackdown. Two identified supporters involved in the incidents are receiving lifetime stadium bans. During the derby against Real Madrid, an incident occurred in the second half where objects—including lighters and plastic bags filled with unknown contents—were thrown by home fans. This led to a 15-minute game interruption while Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois defended the goal. In a statement, the club explained that efforts to identify those involved by the security department, in collaboration with the police, have led to the capture of two more individuals. Others involved can expect similar consequences as investigations continue. The club emphasized that the recent unrest has significantly damaged Atletico's reputation. In response, the disciplinary committee of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has ordered a partial closure of the Civitas Metropolitano Stadium for the next three La Liga matches. The affected section of the stadium, with a capacity of around 5,000 seats, was the location from which the objects were thrown onto the field, partially disrupting the game. Past incidents involving radical Atletico fan groups, such as the hanging of a Vinicius Junior effigy or racist chants, have already made negative headlines. Prior to the recent derby, there were calls circulating on social media to attend the game in disguise to hurl racist insults undetected. Consequently, La Liga, the RFEF, and Atletico have pledged increased security measures in collaboration with the police.