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Several cars were set on fire by Santos FC fans after the club suffered a shock relegation from Brazil's top division on Thursday, December 7. Santos’ poor season ended with a defeat against Fortaleza at home that resulted in their relegation from the Brasileiro Serie A for the first time in 111 years of club history. With their 2-1 defeat in the last clash, Santos finished the season with just one point short of their survival.
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Santos has been one of the most successful Brazilian clubs in the history of the game and their defeat and relegation from the tournament sparked despair and disbelief among fans. After their shocking and unexpected relegation, fans and players broke down in tears. Santos were one of three clubs along with Sao Paolo and Flamengo to never get relegated from the league. The club has had a rich history and was once the home of football legend Pele.
Regarded as one of the best of the time, Pele spent a total of 19 years at the club from 1956 to 1974 while scoring 569 goals, and went down as one of the greatest forwards of all times. Pele, who passed away in December 2022 after his prolonged battle with cancer was draped in Santos FC flag. Apart from him, current Brazil football captain Neymar also kicked off his career at Santos where he scored over 100 goals before moving to Barcelona.
Ex-Chennaiyin FC star Stiven Mendoza’s car burnt down by Santos FC fans
Fans’ despair soon turned into anger as they went on to throw flares onto the field. Not only this, but they also went on to set several cars on fire, including that of former Chennaiyin FC star and Santos forward Stiven Mendoza.
Talking about the game, Fortaleza’s Juan Martin Lucero recorded the match-winner in the 96th minute of the game to guide his side to a 2-1 victory and the rivals to their 17th defeat of the season.
