Racing Fans’ Flares Create Thick Smoke Delaying Racing vs Flamengo Kickoff in Avellaneda
Racing Club’s recent semifinal match against Flamengo encountered significant delays due to smoke created by flares set off by enthusiastic fans. The event, held on October 29, 2025, at the Presidente Perón Stadium in Avellaneda, Argentina, showcased a vibrant atmosphere despite the complications.
Match Delays Due to Smoke From Flares
The game, initially scheduled to start at 9:30 PM (Brasilia time), faced its first delay of twenty minutes. This was caused by Flamengo’s arrival being affected by heavy traffic in Buenos Aires. However, further complications arose when intense smoke from the celebrations caused an additional postponement.
As visibility deteriorated, the match’s start time was pushed to 9:56 PM. Officials from CONMEBOL, along with local authorities, assessed the situation to ensure safety and visibility. Significant concentrations of smoke primarily affected the central area of the pitch and the eastern and northern sectors of the stadium.
Celebratory Atmosphere and Its Consequences
From early afternoon, thousands of Racing fans gathered around Avellaneda, bringing flags and engaging in chants. The dazzling pyrotechnics display exceeded local authorities’ expectations, lasting over ten minutes. This led to small fires near the stands, requiring the intervention of firefighters to contain the situation.
Despite the challenges, the club’s management viewed the celebrations positively, considering them motivational. Both teams remained in the locker rooms while technicians monitored air quality using portable equipment, ensuring that conditions improved before the referee’s entrance.
Prioritizing Safety and Visibility
Just before 9:50 PM, the official delay was communicated to clubs and media. Following CONMEBOL standards, safe oxygen levels had to be achieved before the match could commence. Industrial fans were deployed at the stadium to expedite smoke dispersal.
Even before the flare incident, Flamengo had logistical challenges, arriving at the stadium with a 33-minute delay due to traffic congestions. They opted for an alternate route to avoid further delays. Local police, firefighters, and private security Personnel worked together to manage fan access and enforce safety regulations for what was expected to be a packed house for this crucial match.
