Notorious Argentine Hooligan Leader Gunned Down in Rosario

Andrés Bracamonte, a prominent figure in Argentina's football hooligan scene and leader of the Rosario Central supporters, was shot dead on the streets of Rosario after being involved in a series of violent conflicts. His links to organized crime and history of violence raise concerns about security and criminality surrounding football in the region.

The leader of a notorious gang of football hooligans in Rosario, Argentina, was fatally shot near the Gigante de Arroyito stadium, prompting shockwaves across the football community. Andrés Bracamonte, known as Pillín, had been a dominant figure in the Rosario Central supporters' gang for over two decades, deeply entwined in violent confrontations with rival groups.

On Saturday, just a few blocks from the stadium where Rosario Central had just played a league match, Bracamonte and his second-in-command, Daniel "Rana" Atardo, were attacked by a gunman on a motorcycle. Notably, Bracamonte was not attending the match, having faced a ban from games due to his criminal past, which included accusations of money-laundering and extortion.

Despite being quickly transported to Centenario Hospital, both men succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival. National news coverage painted Bracamonte's assassination as a possible retaliation connected to his extensive history of violence; he had survived multiple attempts on his life, including a recent shooting incident in August.

Bracamonte had amassed a substantial criminal record and was alleged to have connections with the notorious drug cartel, Los Monos, heightening concerns about the influx of organized crime within Argentine football culture. As authorities continue their investigations, the implications of his death and the broader ramifications for gang culture and football in Argentina remain pivotal points of discussion within the nation.