'Beginning of a new chapter' - Argentina to end 12-year ban on away fans in domestic league, implement controlled roll-out

After 12 years of matches played without away fans, Argentine football is taking a major step toward normalcy. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced that it will begin allowing visiting supporters back into stadiums, starting this weekend, and gradually lifting the long-standing restriction introduced in 2013.

The ban was initially enforced due to repeated crowd disturbances and safety concerns, following several violent episodes - including the deaths of two Boca Juniors fans in a clash with San Lorenzo supporters, and after a fan died during a match between Estudiantes and Lanús in 2013.

In an effort to reduce risk, officials implemented a blanket policy barring away fans from all domestic league matches. Although controversial, the policy was widely accepted as necessary. The upcoming fixtures mark the first official step toward reintroducing full fan attendance from both sides.

Now, the AFA will test a controlled return of visiting fans in two games during the second round of the Torneo Clausura: Lanús vs. Rosario Central and Instituto vs. River Plate. The match in Lanús is particularly high-profile, as Ángel Di María is set to play in his long-awaited return to Argentine football.

"This is a very important day for Argentine football. It marks the beginning of a new chapter," said AFA president Claudio Tapia. "We’ve been working on this for a long time. Clubs that are prepared will be able to welcome away fans once again, and this weekend we’re conducting our first test."

Tapia also emphasized the star power drawing fans from across the country.

"There are supporters who want to see Di María - the player who scored some of our national team’s most iconic goals," he said.

Argentina has recently welcomed back two key players from its 2022 World Cup-winning squad: the legendary Di María, who returned to his beloved Rosario Central, and midfielder Leandro Paredes, who signed with Boca Juniors.

In total, several members of the Qatar 2022 champions now play in the Argentine league. Goalkeeper Franco Armani, defenders Gonzalo Montiel, Germán Pezzella, and Marcos Acuña are all currently with River Plate.