River Plate could lose stadium because of post-relegation fan riots

Relegated River Plate could spend the whole of 2010-11 without a stadium, as security watchdogs analyse whether to punish the club for Sunday's violence with a 20-game suspension of the Estadio Monumental.

InfoBAE reports that the Buenos Aires government's security committee is currently studying videos and testimonies from Sunday's promocion clash against Belgrano. A 1-1 draw meant that the Nunez side were sent down to the B Nacional for the first time in their history, and was followed by shocking scenes of violence in the stands and around the Monumental stadium.

No judgement has been passed so far, but a likely punishment appears to be a suspension of 20 matches, which would effectively close down the stadium for the entirety of the next season. The damage caused by home fans is currently being analysed, as are accusations that the ground, currently closed until investigations are completed, was over-capacity by up to 10,000 people.

City prosecutor Gustavo Galante confirmed that the committee were investigating Sunday's disturbances in a short statement to reports.

"We have carried out an inspection at the scene of the events, to collect the necessary evidence in order to advance with this case and find out who is responsible," Galante affirmed on Tuesday.

Over 50 police officers were hurt in scenes of vandalism and violence, which started in the second-half after Mariano Pavone missed a crucial penalty for the Millo. Eyewitnesses tell that media and camera crews were also attacked, and several local shops were looted in the aftermath of River's relegation.

The empty stadium will put more weight on the players.