Video captured the moment a match between the Los Angeles Galaxy and San Diego FC turned violent in the stands when, as the final whistle blew, a massive brawl erupted between the fans.
The two Major League Soccer organizations posted a conjoined message on Instagram condemning the fight, saying, “There is no room for violence in our sport.”
“The incidents that occurred following Saturday’s match at Snapdragon Stadium do not reflect the values of either club and are entirely unacceptable,” the statement read.
According to a report by The San Diego Union-Tribune, both teams had just left the field after San Diego’s 2-1 victory over L.A. when the brawl began, prompting a “sizable police response.”
Videos from the scene were posted to X, showing that as most of the fans vacated their seats after the game, riled up fans from both teams congregated in the visitors’ section and multiple fistfights broke out.
The Tribune pointed out that some of these fistfights were dangerously close to the railing above the lower bowl, and ESPN reported that the fight began to spill into the parking lot.
“More than a dozen police cars arrived to restore order, along with a helicopter,” the Tribune’s story read. “There were no immediate reports of arrests or injuries.”
In addition, the Tribune reported that within an hour after the final whistle, a police helicopter remained hovering above the stadium, ordering people to leave the parking lot.
ESPN noted that this was not the first time San Diego FC fans engaged in fights, saying the club “previously addressed a similar situation when the team faced LAFC in April, as supporters from each club engaged in physical violence.”
On Saturday, the teams warned that both clubs are working with stadium security, MLS and local law enforcement to investigate the fight – which could result in stadium ejections and bans.
“Any behavior found to be in violation of the MLS Fan Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action,” the post said. “We urge all fans to support the game we all love with passion and respect, ensuring that every match remains a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in attendance.”
