Due to the irresponsible behavior of some individuals in the Copa Sudamericana final last year, Flamengo was punished by Conmebol and will be forced to play behind closed doors in two Copa Libertadores da América matches this year, starting with the game against River Plate, on February 28, at the Nilton Santos stadium.

This situation is, in fact, an attack on the beautiful and historic symbiotic relationship between Flamengo and its fans. This regrettable event caused enormous damage to the club—sporting, financial, and to the institution's image—and cannot happen again, under penalty of further punishment, which could be even harsher for repeat offenses.
 
Therefore, Flamengo publicly requests that its fans avoid going to the Nilton Santos Stadium and congregating around it. It also requests that no demonstrations be held in front of the hotel where the River Plate delegation will be staying.

Also aware of the role of public authorities in organizing sporting events in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo will send a letter to General Walter Souza Braga Netto, federal interventor for security in Rio de Janeiro, to the Civil House of the Government of the State of Rio de Janeiro, to the Eastern Military Command, to the Command of the Military Police of Rio de Janeiro, to the head of the Civil Police, to the Security Secretariat of the State of Rio de Janeiro and to the Public Prosecutor's Office of the State of Rio de Janeiro with information regarding the game and requesting security around the stadium and during the transfer of delegations, especially that of River Plate, to the match venue.

Flamengo Regatta Club