Fans of Brazilian club Santos riot in streets after first relegation in their 111-year history; Police fire tear gas

Fans of the Brazilian club Santos rioted in the streets after their team were relegated for the first time in their 111-year history.

A 2-1 home loss to Fortaleza on the final day of the Brazilian Serie A season on 7 December sunk them into the second division.

Tears turned to violence as fans set fire to cars and buses during riots after the match. Fans also clashed with police officers.

Santos has the likes of Pele and Neymar Jr on their list of alumni and is one of Brazil’s most successful clubs.

The coastal city team were one of three clubs, along with Sao Paulo and Flamengo, never to have been relegated from Brazil’s top flight but a woeful run of five games without a victory saw them drop to 17th in the standings with 43 points.

Late Brazilian great Pele helped Santos become one of the most famous clubs in world football, the side won 12 state titles, six league titles and two Copas Libertadores during their golden era of the 1950s and 60s.

Apart from Pele and Neymar, Santos have also produced players such as Robinho and Rodrygo.

Neymar sends touching message

Neymar posted images of himself during his time at Santos, adding the caption: “Santos always Santos”.

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