A top flight game in Mexico between Queretaro and Atlas FC in Mexico had to be suspended due to fan violence which spilled onto the pitch and caused a lot of casualties.
The Liga MX match between Queretaro and Atlas FC on Saturday had to be called off midway into the second half after what started as a fan tussle in the stands evolved into full-blown violence.
Mexican football authorities claim that 22 people were injured in the incident and had to suspend all of Sunday’s Liga MX fixtures due to the incident.
A statement on the issue from the Mexican Football Federation read: “The Mexican Football Federation regrets and condemns the events that occurred this afternoon at Estadio Corregidora in Queretaro, in the match between Queretaro and Atlas.
“Football must be a space of healthy coexistence where any type of violence is inadmissible.
“The FMF will monitor and assist in the investigation process with the corresponding instances so that those responsible are sanctioned in an exemplary manner.”
The president of Liga MX, took to Twitter to angrily declare that punishment would be meted out on the perpetrators after an investigation into the matter is carried out.
“Those responsible for the lack of security in the stadium will be punished in an exemplary manner. The safety of our players and fans is a priority,” the Liga MX boss tweeted.
Queretaro and Atlas extend hands of cooperation as investigations into incident begin
The game between both clubs — the ninth round of the 2022 Clausura football tournament — was in its 63rd minute when fights between opposing fans broke out.
As it escalated, security guards opened the stadium doors to allow fans to get to safety. However, some continued to exchange blows and hit each other with dangerous objects. The fight spilled onto the pitch, forcing the game to be stopped and the players to be sent to their locker rooms.
A VAR monitor was destroyed during the clashes, with images posted to social media showing injured fans.
Queretaro, the home side, have stated that they would fully be at the beck and call of Mexican football authorities as they investigate the happenings at their stadium, Estadio Corregidora.
“We roundly condemn the events that occurred at Estadio Corregidora,” a club statement read.
“We are in full communication and coordination with the authorities so that they can act quickly against anyone responsible.
“As an institution we condemn violence of any kind.”
Atlas also echoed those calls, insisting football must be able to promote family values.
“Atlas FC regrets and disapproves of the events that took place in Estadio Corregidora,” the Atlas statement read.
“Soccer must be an ally to promote values and fun for the whole family.
“We request the pertinent authorities, the Liga BBVA MX and the FMF, to investigate thoroughly and reach the ultimate consequences, determining the responsibilities of those who are involved, and applying the full force of the law.”
