Fans and police clash at Rio airport during Flamengo departure for Copa Libertadores final
Flamengo soccer fans see their team off as it arrives to the airport ahead of the Copa Libertadores final, in Rio de Janeiro, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025. Credit: AP/Bruna Prado
RIO DE JANEIRO — Rio de Janeiro police officers and soccer fans clashed Wednesday near the city's international airport as Flamengo's squad prepared to travel to Peru to face Palmeiras in an all-Brazilian Copa Libertadores final.
Local media reported about a dozen fans entered the Flamengo bus from the ceiling as thousands cheered outside. Footage captured by The Associated Press shows officials using tear gas and rubber bullets amid the clashes, with some fans fighting back.
Flamengo midfielder Saúl Niguez joked about the incident in his social media channels, showing fans entering the bus from the top.
“We have some new signings,” the former Atletico Madrid player wrote.
The Brazilian club did not comment about the incident.
Authorities have not commented on injuries or arrests.
The teams will square off for the South American club crown Saturday at the Monumental Stadium of Lima.
Police clash with Flamengo soccer fans as the team arrives at the airport ahead of the Copa Libertadores final, in Rio de Janeiro, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025. Credit: AP/Bruna Prado
Brazilian teams have won every Copa Libertadores title since 2019, with Saturday’s finalists winning two each in that period.
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