A Club Celaya fan died and at least six were injured in a brawl between supporter groups after the Liga Premier Jornada 20 match in Boca del Río, Veracruz. The clash happened outside the Unidad Deportiva Hugo Sánchez Márquez following Racing de Veracruz's 4-0 victory. Authorities and involved clubs condemned the violence and pledged to investigate the incident.
On the night of Saturday, February 21, 2026, a brawl erupted between fans of Racing de Veracruz and Club Celaya near the Unidad Deportiva Hugo Sánchez Márquez in Boca del Río, Veracruz, after the Jornada 20 match of the 2025-2026 Serie A season in the Liga Premier. Racing de Veracruz defeated Celaya 4-0, with both teams leading Group C.
The deceased was identified as Carlos Alberto Ortiz Ortega, a member of Club Celaya's supporter group, as confirmed by club president Cristian Ríos. Ríos reported at least six injuries, two serious, and blamed the home team for inadequate security protocols. "No se implementaron las medidas necesarias para prevenir la confrontación entre aficionados," he stated.
Racing de Veracruz issued a statement claiming they implemented measures to separate supporter groups during the match and that private security intervened against damage caused by visiting fans inside the stadium. The club emphasized it does not tolerate violence and will cooperate with authorities.
Testimonies from both sides agree on insufficient police presence. Celaya supporters recounted being attacked by Racing fans with sticks and objects, while local fans claimed visitors started the fight with sticks and knives. "Los de Racing provocaron, caímos en provocaciones, hubo violencia; fue negligencia de los policías," one Celaya fan said.
Local merchants reported damage to their businesses, linked to alcohol and drug consumption by those involved. A shop manager described: "Todos venían alcoholizados (...) Rompieron el cristal del local de acá (...) Fue una locura."
Boca del Río mayor Maryjose Gamboa announced a review of the stadium lease compliance by the club and called for arrests. Governor Rocío Nahle stated the Fiscalía has opened an investigation file. The Liga Premier expressed regret, promised collaboration with authorities, an internal probe, and protocol enhancements, reaffirming zero tolerance for violence.
