Brazilian club Santos FC were relegated from the Brasileirão Serie A for the first time in their 111 year history, sparking outrage from fans. The club lost their final game of the season against Fortaleza, leaving the fans heartbroken regarding the outcome of the season.
Some of them, unable to contain their emotions, acted out violently. For example, forward Steven Mendoza’s car was set on fire and completely burned down in the aftermath of the game. The former Chennaiyin FC forward scored six goals and provided two assists in 26 games this season, but it still wasn’t enough to steer them to safety.
Santos FC relegated for the first time in their history: Fans left outraged
Santos FC was put on the map by the achievements of the legendary Pele – who remains the top goalscorer in the club’s history with 643 goals in 656 games. In recent years, Neymar and Rodrygo have stepped up to the mantle and have emerged as world-class players from the club.
The club were heartbreakingly relegated by only one point. Bahia finished ahead of them with 44 points, leaving them relegated in spite of earning 43 this season.
The players were in tears on the pitch, and fans rioted outside the Vila Belmiro Stadium as the worst was confirmed. They were one of the three clubs in Brazil to have never been relegated, and with football being a way of life in the country, the reactions were amplified to a huge extent too.
