Santos FC considers SAF transition and new facial recognition entry rules

Santos FC is moving toward a potential transformation into a Sociedade Anônima do Futebol (SAF). On November 8, club members will vote on a statutory reform that would allow the sale of up to 80% of a future SAF, increasing the current limit of 49%. This change is intended to facilitate a non-binding R$ 2 billion proposal from the American group SDC Sports. Under the proposal, R$ 1 billion would be allocated to football department investments, while the remaining R$ 1 billion would be used to settle club debts.

Separately, the club has implemented new access protocols for upcoming matches, specifically for the game against Bahia at Vila Belmiro. Santos announced that facial recognition will now be required for entry, replacing traditional membership cards for associates, non-members, and VIP seat holders. Non-member fans must also register for the free ‘Santos Mais Popular’ plan to purchase tickets.