Colo Colo Facing Historic Sanction: Conmebol May Ban Club for Up to Five Years

The tragic events at Estadio Monumental during the Copa Libertadores clash between Colo Colo and Fortaleza could result in one of the harshest punishments ever handed down by South America’s football governing body. According to RedGol, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has formally requested that Conmebol award a 3-0 win to Fortaleza, citing the disciplinary code that holds the host club responsible for major security failures. The match was marred by a deadly stampede outside the stadium that killed two Colo Colo fans—an 18-year-old and a 13-year-old—when a gate collapsed during a rush of supporters.

Though the match initially kicked off, it was abandoned in the 68th minute after Colo Colo fans stormed the pitch in protest upon learning of the fatalities. Conmebol later confirmed the game’s cancellation and began disciplinary proceedings. Journalist Manuel de Tezanos Pinto reported that internal sources within the confederation are seriously considering banning Colo Colo not only from the current Libertadores campaign but also from all continental competitions for up to five years.

In addition to forfeiting the match, Colo Colo could face a fine between $100,000 and $400,000 and be forced to play remaining home matches behind closed doors. The incident has caused national outrage in Chile, with local prosecutors launching a formal investigation. As Colo Colo’s legal team prepares its defense, the club now awaits a decision from Conmebol that could have devastating consequences for its near and long-term future in international football.