---
title: "Clown banners and blue smoke at Skonto as RFS fans protest cancelled derby"
date: 2026-11-08T13:48:19Z
lang: en
author: "Gregors Spricis"
canonical: https://balticfootballnews.com/clown-banners-and-blue-smoke-at-skonto-as-rfs-fans-protest-cancelled-derby/
categories: ["Virsliga"]
---

# Clown banners and blue smoke at Skonto as RFS fans protest cancelled derby
Supporters of the newly crowned Latvian champions waved flags, beat drums and released blue smoke outside their rivals’ ground. Banners depicted clown faces beneath a mocking version of Riga FC’s name, while posters accused the club of “stealing the derby”.

Speaking to Baltic Football News at the gathering, one spectator described the disappointment of preparing for a fixture that was cancelled the day before.

“We were really prepared for the game, wanted to see a cool football game,” he said, explaining that the occasion had raised expectations precisely because it was the Riga derby.

Another visitor, who said he was from Germany, called Riga FC’s decision “a bit ridiculous” and questioned why the absence of anything to play for in the standings should prevent the match taking place.

> “We are from Germany and couldn’t imagine this happening at the last game of the season in Germany,” he said. “Even though it’s about nothing, you still have to play. It’s about honour.”

Riga FC announced their boycott on Saturday, alleging that repeated refereeing errors had influenced the championship standings and accusing the Latvian Football Federation of failing to address their complaints. RFS had already secured the title, with Riga FC guaranteed second place. Still, the decision left supporters without a cherished derby finale, although those outside Skonto still created a matchday atmosphere, chanting and displaying their colours as they voiced their opposition.

The LFF has condemned Riga FC’s withdrawal as unjustifiable, stressing the club’s responsibility towards opponents, supporters and Latvian football. Its disciplinary committee will consider the case at its next meeting.