Ultras
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Ultras are a type of association football fans who are known for their fanatical support. The term originated in Italy, but is used worldwide to describe predominantly organised fans of association football teams. The behavioural tendency of ultras groups includes singing football chants, playing musical instruments such as drums, their use of flares and smoke bombs (primarily in tifo choreography), frequent use of elaborate displays, vocal support in large groups and the displaying of flags and banners at football stadiums, all of which are designed to create an atmosphere which encourages their own team and intimidates the opposing players and their supporters. These groups also commonly organise trips to attend away games.
Ultras groups have been responsible for many cases of football hooliganism and violence,[1] although differently from hooligan firms, ultras do not have the explicit objective of fighting other fans.[2] Ultras groups are also in some cases directly linked to ideologies like neo-Nazism and other forms of far-right politics,[3][4][5] and sometimes far-left politics.[6][7] In some instances, hooliganism and/or this politicisation goes to the point where support for their team is relegated to a secondary feature of the phenomenon.[8]
In recent decades, the culture has become a focal point for the movement against the commercialisation of sports and football in particular.[9] Ultras also have regional variants and analogues, such as casuals in the United Kingdom, barra bravas in Hispanic America,[10] and torcidas organizadas in Brazil.[11]
History
[edit]The origin of the ultras movement is disputed,[12] with many supporters groups from various countries making claims solely on the basis of their dates of foundation. The level of dispute and confusion is aided by a contemporary tendency (mainly in Europe) to categorise all groups of overtly fanatical supporters as ultras. The first group of fans was found in Salerno, Italy in 1921 with the name "circolo salernitani fieri",[13] later in Florence in 1931 when some Fiorentina fans created the group called "ordine del marzocco",[14] which with a large following, composed hymns, distributed flags and stage material and set up special trains to follow the team. Supporters groups of a nature comparable to the ultras have been present in Brazil since 1939, when the first torcida organizada was formed (although these groups began to focus on violence in the 1970s). Inspired by the torcidas and the colourful scenes of the 1950 World Cup, supporters of Hajduk Split formed Torcida Split on 28 October 1950.[15] The first supporters' groups in the world formed to produce violence were barras bravas, originated in Argentina in the 1950s.[citation needed]
One country closely associated with the ultras movement is Italy.[12][16] The first Italian ultras groups were formed in 1951, including the Fedelissimi Granata of Torino. The 1960s saw the continuing spread and development of the culture with the formation of the Fossa dei Leoni and Boys San groups, the former often regarded in Italy as the first full-fledged ultras group (associated with violence). The term "ultras" was used as a name for the first time in 1969, when supporters of Sampdoria formed the Ultras Tito Cucchiaroni and fans of Torino formed the Ultras Granata. The style of support that would become synonymous with Italian football developed most during the 1970s, as more groups formed, including the radical S.S. Lazio Ultras in 1974, with a strong predominance of fascist slogans and chants amongst other groups such as Hellas Verona supporters. The active support of the ultras became more apparent, in contrast with the "traditional" culture, choreographic displays, signature banners and symbols, giant flags, drums and fireworks became the norm as groups aimed to take their support to higher levels.[17] The decade also saw the violence and unrest of Italian society at the time overlap with the ultras movement, adding a dimension that has plagued it ever since.[18] The ultras movement spread across Europe, Australia, Asia and North Africa during the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, starting with the countries geographically closest to Italy.[19]
Characteristics
[edit]Ultras groups are usually centred on a core group of founders or leaders (who tend to hold executive control),[20] with smaller subgroups organised by location, friendship or political stance. Ultras tend to use various styles and sizes of banners and flags bearing the name and symbols of their group.[20][21] Some ultras groups sell their own merchandise to raise funds for performing displays.[20][22] An ultras group can number from a handful of fans to hundreds or thousands, with larger groups often claiming entire sections of a stadium for themselves. Ultras groups often have a representative who liaises with the club owners on a regular basis, mostly regarding tickets, seat allocations and storage facilities.[20] Some clubs provide groups with cheaper tickets, storage rooms for flags and banners and early access to the stadium before matches to prepare displays. These types of favoured relationships are often criticised when ultras groups abuse their power.[5]
Hooliganism
[edit]
While ultras groups can become violent, the majority of matches attended by ultras conclude with no violent incidents. Unlike hooligan firms, whose main aim is to fight hooligans of other clubs, the main focus of ultras is generally to support their own team.[1] Some hooligans try to be inconspicuous when they travel; usually not wearing team colours, to avoid detection by the police. Within the ultra or hooligan culture however, those dressing to "blend in" would be referred to as casuals, which is viewed by some as a branch of hooliganism, yet still maintaining its own independence and culture. Ultras tend to be more conspicuous when they travel, proudly displaying their scarves and club colours while arriving en masse, which allows the police to keep a close eye on their movements.
Europe
[edit]France
[edit]Germany
[edit]
The "Fortuna Eagles Supporters" who are connected to SC Fortuna Köln, were founded in 1986.[23] In 1989, another group was formed under the name "Soccer Boyz" (today: "Ultras Leverkusen"). They are associated with Bundesliga Leverkusen.[24] In the 1990s, the Ultras movement grew steadily. With the turn of the millennium, many Ultra groups took responsibility in the stands to contribute to the atmosphere, superseding individual fans and unorganised groups.
The Ultra movement then spiked in the mid-2000s. Both individual memberships and the total number of groups increased drastically. The Ultras had now moved from a subculture to being mainstream. As a result of mixing with other subcultures such as hip-hop, punk, graffiti and street art, Ultra groups even collaborated with, and were referenced by artists in their work.
Due to rising numbers in membership changes developed and after a subcultural phase, which was partially political, Ultra groups have mostly become self-referential in the 2010s. There has also been a change in the way violence is viewed, leading to conflicts and separations even within groups.[25] One example for the violent conflicts has happened at Alemannia Aachen where two different groups violently clashed at their home ground, the left-leaning "Aachen Ultras" and the right-wing "Karlsbande".[26] [27]
Nowadays, for almost all clubs of the three biggest German leagues, and for some in lower leagues, there are groups who identify as Ultras. In Germany, there are supposedly more than 25,000 Ultras organized in over 300 different groups.[28]
Ultra-Movement against the DFB
[edit]As the rift between the Ultra groups and the German Football Association (Deutscher Fußball-Bund) continued to grow, the Ultra group of Dynamo Dresden symbolically proclaimed war against the DFB in May 2017. Around 2,000 of them, raged through Karlsruhe, lit fireworks, stormed the stadium and held up a banner with the inscription "War Against DFB". The Ultras of Dresden were heavily criticized for their martial behaviour, yet, the next match day over 30 other Ultra groups applauded them for their agenda.[29]
In the 2000s, there already were nationwide campaigns by the German Ultra Movement. Following the ProFans campaign, the fan demonstration at the 2005 Confederations Cup, and several years of collaboration under the label "Zum Erhalt der Fankultur" (Preserving Fan Culture), in 2017 the Dresden initiative was seen as a new beginning for networking in Germany. A large number of Ultra groups sought dialogue in order to organize a joint protest. The meetings, which even took place between rival groups, were extremely rare in Germany until then. The Ultra groups agreed on issues such as the investigation of the so-called 2006 summer fairy tale, the end of match day fragmentation,[29] fan-friendly kick-off times, the abolition of collective punishment, an end to corruption, the preservation of the 50+1 rule, transparency in the sports court, and an end to eventization.
Following these agreements, a similar protest against the association took place nationwide during the first round of the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) in August 2017. Across 28 Cup games, there were 32 demonstrations. Eventually, the pressure on the DFB became so great that in August 2017, they announced that they would refrain from issuing collective punishments until further notice and offered a "serious dialogue this time."
The first such dialogue took place between the association's leadership and approximately 30 representatives from various Ultra groups on 9 November 2017. Both parties agreed on a consensus, or at least a convergence, regarding promotion rules for the Regionalliga (regional league), kick-off times, permitted fan items, and stadium bans. On 1 June 2018, the DFB introduced Monday games for the 3rd league, which prompted the ultra groups to pull back from the dialogue.
Just one day prior, there had been a second meeting, during which the DFB did not reveal their plan. The fans considered the dialogue a failure and criticised that no improvements had been made. They accused the DFB of only having agreed to the dialogue for publicity.[30]
United Kingdom
[edit]The UK was the birthplace of football hooliganism and casuals. The overwhelming dominance of these local football movements meant an 'ultras' subculture took much longer to develop. Severe anti-hooligan laws, heavy policing, undercover surveillance, and strict ground regulations heavily restricted the use of flares, tifos, banners, and drums. This growth was further delayed by mandatory all-seater stadiums following the 1989 Taylor Report, and expensive ticket prices that have locked out working class supporters since the 1990s. Eventually, British fans began establishing ultras groups, particularly from the mid-2010s onwards.[31][32][33]
England
[edit]The Holmesdale Fanatics of Crystal Palace F.C. are one of the most prominent ultras groups in England.[34][35][36] In late-2022, an Arsenal ultras group called the Ashburton Army gained prominence, taking their name from Ashburton Grove, the historic road upon which the team's Emirates Stadium was built.[37][38][39] In April 2024, Aston Villa F.C. supporters formed the 1897 Group. Following the inception of the group and a subsequent meeting with club officials, the group were allocated a section of the club's home stadium Villa Park for a Premier League match against A.F.C. Bournemouth to launch the group's presence at Aston Villa's matches.[40] The group's volunteers help to organise and carry out tifo displays in Villa Park's Holte End stand and across other sections of the stadium for Villa home matches.[41] Other ultras-style supporters' groups have formed at clubs such as Middlesbrough F.C. (Red Faction),[42] Newcastle United (Wor Flags),[43] Colchester United known as the BWA (Blue and White Army),[44] Hartlepool United known as the NWC (North West Corner),[45] Bristol City (Section 82),[46] Leicester City F.C. (Union FS),[47] and Ipswich Town F.C. (Blue Action).[48] Several non-League football teams have had ultras groups that are left-wing, such as Clapton F.C. (Clapton Ultras), Mangotsfield United (Inter Village Firm), and Dulwich Hamlet F.C. (The Rabble).[49][50] An article by Vice News in 2015 wrote that the now defunct British nationalist group Casuals United (an alliance of several hooligan firms) was in conflict with anti-fascist football ultras in England, and had succeeded in getting multiple ultras groups banned.[51]
Scotland
[edit]The Green Brigade are an ultras group that follow Celtic F.C. who make tifo displays and voice support for a United Ireland and Palestinian nationalism.[52] They describe themselves as left-wing.[53] On the other side of Glasgow are the Rangers F.C. ultra group the Union Bears.[54] The Union Bears are known for their elaborate fan displays and their support for Scottish unionism and Northern Irish unionism within the UK. They are described as being right-wing.[55] They celebrate and support the Protestant history of both Rangers and Scotland.[56] They sit in the Copland Road stand.[57] Incidents of violence between the Union Bears and the Green Brigade are common.[58] Ultras Aberdeen are the ultras group who follow Aberdeen F.C., they organise chants and choreography in the Merkland Road Stand, at Pittodrie Stadium, also known as the "Red Shed". Block Seven are a supporters group that support Hibernian F.C., while the Gorgie Ultras support rivals Heart of Midlothian F.C.. Northbank are the ultras group supporting St. Mirren, occupying a section of the west stand. The Southside Ultras support Queen's Park F.C., while the Partick Thistle Ultras support their city rivals, Partick Thistle. The Partick Thistle Ultras formed in 2021 when fans were not allowed inside stadiums during the COVID-19 pandemic. The group gathered at a nearby canal on the last day of the season as their team won the Scottish League One title, and celebrated with flares, flags, and singing.[59] Other ultras in the Scottish Championship include Dunfermline Athletic's Section North West, Greenock Morton's Cowshed, Raith Rovers’ Ultras Raith, Livingston's Block C, Hamilton Academical's Accies Youth, Ayr United's Somerset Ragazzi, Falkirk's Ultras 1876 and Airdrieonians’ Section B.
Northern Ireland
[edit]The ultras scene in Northern Ireland is new, and since these have begun, the younger generation of fans in Northern Ireland has increased more than it has in many years.[citation needed]
| Club | Name |
|---|---|
| Glentoran F.C. | Glentoran Ultras |
| Linfield F.C. | Blue Unity |
| Cliftonville F.C. | Red Fanatics |
| Coleraine F.C. | Coleraine Casual Army |
| Larne F.C. | Casual Inver Army |
| Derry City F.C. | Ultras Derry |
Switzerland
[edit]Most professional football clubs in Switzerland have ultras groups. Notable examples include Servette FC (Section Grenat), FC Basel (Muttenzerkurve), FC Zürich (Zürcher Südkurve), Grasshopper Club Zurich (Sektor IV), and BSC Young Boys (Ostkurve Bern). Other clubs with ultras groups include FC Luzern (USL), FC St. Gallen (Green Power, Saint Brothers, Bangor Maniacs, and Green Fires), FC Sion (Ultras Sion 1994 and Freaks Sion), FC Lugano (Curva Nord FC Lugano 1908), FC Thun (Red White Boys), FC Lausanne-Sport (Loz Boys, Triccards Lausanne, and their respective youth sections Loz Flaytes and Géneration Turbulante ), FC Winterthur (Taktlos Winterthur), FC Aarau (Szene Aarau), and Yverdon-Sport FC (Kop 14)
Austria
[edit]Many Austrian clubs have ultras groups supporting them, most notably SK Rapid, who had the first group in Austria in 1988, the "Ultras Rapid Block West 1988", who are still very active and are in control of most the so-called "Block West" in the Weststadion, together with groups like "Tornados", "Lords", "SAF 2012", "Lions" and others, creating the biggest ultras support among all Austrian clubs, at home and away as well. Other clubs like FK Austria Wien, Sturm Graz or SV Austria Salzburg are also known for their active supporting scene. Many ultras groups have active friendships with groups from friendly clubs, mostly from Germany, Italy, Greece and Hungary.
Hungary
[edit]Several clubs in Hungary have large ultras groups, such as Ferencváros (Green Monsters), Újpest (Viola Fidelity), Diósgyőr (Ultras Diósgyőr), Honvéd (Ultras Kispest, Északi Kanyar), Fehérvár (Red Blue Devils), Tatabánya (Turul Ultrái), Debrecen (Szívtiprók Ultras Debrecen) and other strongly developing groups such as Kecskemét (Ultras Kecskemét) Szeged (Ultras Szeged). The national team of Hungary has an ultras group known as the Carpathian Brigade. The group was formed in 2009. Hungarian ultras occupy sector B Central at the Puskás Aréna.
Czech Republic
[edit]The ultras movement in the Czech Republic developed during the 1990s following the fall of communism, drawing influence from neighbouring Germany, Italy and Poland. Most professional football clubs in the Czech Republic have an ultras group.
| stadium | club | name |
|---|---|---|
| Stadion Letná | AC Sparta Prague | Letenští |
| Fortuna Arena | SK Slavia Prague | Tribuna Sever |
| Městský stadion (Ostrava) | FC Baník Ostrava | Chachaři |
| Doosan Arena | FC Viktoria Plzeň | Sektor-P |
| Městský fotbalový stadion Srbská | FC Zbrojovka Brno | Zbrojováci
Johny Kentus Gang |
| Ďolíček | Bohemians Praha 1905 | Sektor 1905
Green White Fanatics |
| Andrův stadion | SK Sigma Olomouc | Ultras Sigma |
| Stadion Střelnice | FK Jablonec | Ultras Jablonec |
| Stadion u Nisy | FC Slovan Liberec | Chaotix Liberec |
| Městský stadion (Karviná) | MFK Karviná | Ultras Karviná |
| Malšovická aréna | FC Hradec Králové | Votroci 2000 |
| Na Stínadlech | FK Teplice | SEKTOR 15 |
| Stadion Letná | FC Zlín | Ultras Zlín 1919 |
Portugal
[edit]
| Stadium | Club | Name |
|---|---|---|
| Estádio do Dragão | FC Porto | Super Dragões 1986 Colectivo Ultras 95 |
| Estádio do Bessa | Boavista FC | Panteras Negras 84 |
| Estádio da Luz | SL Benfica | Иo Иame Boys 92 < Diabos Vermelhos 82 < Grupo Manks 96 |
| Estádio José Alvalade | Sporting CP | Juventude Leonina 1976 Torcida Verde Directivo Ultras XXI Brigada Ultras Sporting |
| Estádio de São Luís | SC Farense | South Side Boys |
| Estádio José Gomes | CF Estrela da Amadora | Magia Tricolor |
| Estádio Municipal de Braga | SC Braga | Red Boys 92 Bracara Legion 2003 |
| Estádio Municipal 22 de Junho | FC Famalicão | Fama Boys 1990 |
| Estádio D. Afonso Henriques | Vitória SC | Insane Guys 1994 White Angels 1999 Suspeitos do Costume 2008 |
| Estádio Comendador Manuel Violas | SC Espinho | Desnorteados |
| Complexo Desportivo de Campanhã | SC Salgueiros | Alma Salgueirista 1985 |
| Estádio Marques da Silva | AD Ovarense | Fans_1921 |
| Estádio Do Restelo | CF Os Belenenses | Fúria Azul |
| Estádio do Marítimo | Club Sport Marítimo | Fanatics13 Ultras Templários Esquadrão Maritimista |
Greece
[edit]In Greece, most professional football teams have an ultras group. Most of them are named after a gate number which refers to the specific place where the fans are situated at the stadium. Others have actual names or no special names at all and they are named after their supporting team.
Armenia
[edit]In Armenia, many of the professional football clubs contain ultras groups, typically either named after their team, the specific sector in the stadium where the fans reside, or the district the majority the fans are from. The most popular football clubs with devoted fans are FC Pyunik, FC Urartu, FC Shirak, and FC Ararat Yerevan. The largest ultras is FAF Ultras (First Armenian Front), an organized supporters group dedicated to the Armenian national football team. They are known for creating strong atmospheres in the stadium through passionate chants, banners, and tifos. In December 2025, the FAF Ultras assisted a visiting Polish fan group, Legia Warshaw, by providing accommodation arrangements, which led to the Polish fans displaying a banner in the following match: 'FAF - RESPECT!'.[60]
| Stadium | Club | Name |
|---|---|---|
| Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium | FC Pyunik | Sector 18 |
| Urartu Stadium | FC Urartu | South West Ultras (Malatia-Sebastia District) |
| Gyumri City Stadium | FC Shirak | Black Panthers (Bagratuni Dynasty) |
| Vazgen Sargsyan Republican Stadium | FC Ararat Yerevan | The White Eagles |
| Abovyan City Stadium | FC Noah | Noah's Ark |
| Gandzasar Stadium | FC Gandzasar Kapan | The Bears |
Serbia
[edit]Red Star Belgrade have one of the most dedicated ultras groups in Europe, Delije is a collective name for supporters of various groups that are a part of the Red Star Belgrade multi-sport club. They attend every match, and usually do choreographies and shout chants, with many subgroups present on the stadium as well.
FK Partizan, have an ultras group of their own named Grobari (Gravediggers).They generally support all clubs within the Partizan multi-sports club, and mostly wear black and white symbols, which are the club's colors.
Denmark
[edit]FC Copenhagen (Sektion 12) and Brøndby IF (Sydsiden) have notable ultras, and their derby is considered to be one of the most notable in Europe.[61]
AaB's ultras group caused a 14-minute delay in the 2020 Danish Cup final for a failure to adhere to COVID-19 social distancing rules.[62] The group was ultimately ejected from the stadium and the game resumed, which was won by Sønderjyske.
Italy
[edit]
In Italy, most professional football clubs have an ultras group which attends every match and has dedicated seating areas in either the north or south end of the stadium behind the goals. Each ultras group will have one or more leaders who choreograph chants, and who hand out banners and flags to other people in the stand to wave throughout the match. Ultras have been credited with creating fantastic atmospheres inside the stadium; however they have also come under universal criticism because of ties to various gangs and the mafia, as well as causing violence which often takes place outside the stadium prior to a match. Over the years inappropriate chanting has resulted in the FIGC issuing partial or full stadium bans to clubs. The ultras will choreograph a wide range of chants throughout a match, but some of the most common chants that result in a ban are anti-Southern chants towards clubs which are located in the South of Italy, most notably towards Napoli, as well as racist chants towards opposition players. However, these issues only partially represent parts of the Ultras culture in Italy – Ultras in Italy are also known for giving housing to immigrants or helping Italian citizens in need, as well as aiding with food and money during the Covid pandemic to their local hospitals.[63][64]
| Stadium | Club | Name |
|---|---|---|
| San Siro | AC Milan | Curva Sud Milano |
| San Siro | Inter Milan | Curva Nord Milano |
| Juventus Stadium | Juventus | Drughi Bianconeri Gruppo Storico Fighters Viking Juve Nucleo 1985 Tradizione-Antichi Valori |
| Stadio Olimpico | Roma | Curva Sud Gruppo Quadraro |
| Stadio Diego Armando Maradona | Napoli | Curva A Curva B |
| Stadio Olimpico | Lazio | Irriducibili Ultras Lazio |
| Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia | Atalanta | Vecchia Guardia Ultras Tanto Tornano Per Chi Non Può Essere |
Republic of Ireland
[edit]Several groups exist in Ireland, as follows:
- Shamrock Rovers - SRFC Ultras
- St Patrick's Athletic - Shed End Invincibles
- Drogheda United - Famous 45 Ultras
- Dundalk FC - Shed Side Army
- Bohemian FC - Notorious Boo Boys
- Galway United F.C. - Maroon Army
- Waterford FC - Block E Boys
- Kerry F.C. - North Terrace Boys
- Finn Harps FC - Ballybofey Brigade
- Sligo Rovers - Forza Rovers
- Cork City FC - Commandos 84
- Treaty United - Blue Army
- Wexford FC - Slaneyside Crew
- Shelbourne FC - Briogaid Dearg, Boys 1895
- Bray Wanderers - Na Fanaithe
- Longford Town - Section O
Slovakia
[edit]
Multiple groups of active Ultras groups exists in Slovakia, with the most active being Ultras Spartak.[65]
In a match between Spartak Trnava and Slovan Bratislava in 2021, there was a full blown fight on the pitch between both ultras, with the game being cancelled and postponed.[66][67] As a result of this incident, Spartak Trnava would have to play the next three home matches without the Ultras, with entry only allowed for children under 15 years of age, and Slovan would have to pay heavy fines.[68]
| Stadium | Club | Name | Est. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anton Malatinský Stadium | Spartak Trnava | Ultras Spartak | 1988 |
| Tehelné pole | Slovan Bratislava | Ultras Slovan | - |
| DAC Aréna | DAC Dunajská Streda | YBS (Yellow Blue Supporters) | - |
| Štadión pod Dubňom | MŠK Žilina | Žilinskí Šošoni (Žilina Shoshones) | - |
| Štadión pod Čebraťom | MFK Ružomberok | Ultras Concordia | - |
| Košická futbalová aréna | FC Košice | Ultras Košice | - |
Poland
[edit]The first Polish ultras groups were formed in 1970s by fans of Legia Warszawa and Arka Gdynia, although the pioneering fan groups in Poland were ŁKS Łódź and Polonia Bytom - the end of the 1960s. Those early ultra groups identified as either fascist or national-socialist and opposed the communist government of Wojciech Jaruzelski. The 1990s saw the continuing spread and development of the ultra culture with the formation of the Wisła Sharks and Cracovia Jude Gang groups, the former often regarded in Poland as the first full-fledged ultras group. With intimidating and non-stop chanting, they made their presence felt in the stands.[69] Modern hooligans try to be inconspicuous when they enter the stadium; usually not wearing team colours, to avoid detection by the police and PZPN officials.[70]
Spain
[edit]Spanish ultraism is generally agreed to have come from Italian ultraism and English hooliganism at the 1982 World Cup held in Spain. Held only seven years after the death of Francisco Franco, the World Cup was an opportunity for Spain to join the world of modern international football. Spanish ultraism is particularly known for its dramatic and polarized distinction across two ideological cleavages: fascism and (regional) nationalism. The vast majority of ultra groups identify as either fascist or anti-fascist, and either separatist or nationalist.[71]
The Netherlands
[edit]In the Netherlands, most professional football teams have an ultras group. the first ultras groups in the Netherlands was formed in the 1970s by fans of Feyenoord, they called themselves S.C.F. Hooligans. After S.C.F. Hooligans were formed, many other ultras groups started forming such as AFC Ajax (F-side), FC Utrecht (Bunnikside), ADO Den Haag (north side), De Graafschap (Brigata Tifosi), FC Twente (Vak-P), FC Groningen (Z-Side).
Belgium
[edit]Most clubs in Belgium have an ultra-group, such as Sporting Charleroi (Storm Ultras 2001), Sint-Truidense V.V. (Brigada Hesbania), KRC Genk (Drughi Genk), RSC Anderlecht (Mauves Army 2003), Standard Liège (Ultras Inferno 1996), KAA Gent (Ultras Ghent ‘14).
Luxembourg
[edit]Several clubs in Luxembourg have an ultras group, such as FC Differdange 03 (UD45), Jeunesse Esch (Ultras Esch), Avenir Beggen (Ultras Beggen), Luxembourg national football team (M-Block)
Bosnia and Herzegovina
[edit]People in Bosnia and Herzegovina are known for their national ultras group BHFanaticos. Also, they have a few ultras that are connected to football clubs Manijaci, Horde zla, Lešinari, Red Army, Škripari, Ultras Mostar and many more.
Cyprus
[edit]Gate-9 (Greek: Θύρα 9 ) is a Cypriot fans' group that supports the football team People's Athletic Club Omonia 1948 and all the sport departments of AC Omonia except football. Omonia supporters are traditionally left wing. A 2009 gallop poll estimated that three out of four Omonia fans vote for the Progressive Party of Working People, the communist party of Cyprus.[72] While the group retains its left wing beliefs, in recent years it has been openly critical of the party's involvement in the club's administrative decisions. The party has denied accusations that it influences club decisions.[73] Gate-9 members are associated with communist beliefs and have been noted for waving banners bearing Che Guevara's portrait, and other communist symbols.[74] The group is also involved in humanitarian work for refugees in Cyprus.[75] The group, besides Nicosia, has fan clubs in Limassol, Athens, Thessaloniki, Larnaka,[76] Paphos,[77] and London.[78]
There are also ultras groups affiliated with the APOEL FC[79] and the Anorthosis Famagusta FC.[80]
Malta
[edit]Although small in size, Malta has some notable ultras groups. The main ultras groups in Malta are Birkirkara Ultras 1997, Ultras Beltin 999, and Paola Boys Hibs Ultras, Sliema Ultras Blue Gladiators as well as the Maltese national football team ultras group, the South End Core.
Ukraine
[edit]| Stadium | Club | Name |
|---|---|---|
| Chernihiv Stadium | Desna Chernihiv | Ultras Desna |
Romania
[edit]Romania's ultras only finds itself in the traditional teams like Steaua Bucharest, FCSB, Dinamo Bucharest and Rapid Bucharest; but there are some small ultras groups which support their local club. The biggest ultras groups are: Peluza Nord FCSB, Peluza Sud CSA Steaua București, Peluza Cătălin Hîldan Dinamo Bucuresti, Peluza Sud Dinamo Bucuresti, Peluza Nord Rapid, Peluza Sud Timisoara, t2 Rapid, Peluza Şepcile Roşii and Peluza Nord Hunedoara. There are also some honourable mentions like Peluza Marină Farul, Peluza Sud Craiova and Peluza Nord Galați.
Turkey
[edit]The three big clubs of Turkey, namely Beşiktaş, Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray, have dedicated fanbases. The ultras of these clubs are Çarşı, Genç Fenerbahçeliler and ultrAslan, respectively.
Bulgaria
[edit]The most famous ultras in Bulgaria are Sector B (Levski Sofia), Sector G (CSKA Sofia), Bultras (Botev Plovdiv), Green Fighters (Neftochimic Burgas), Moryatsi (Cherno More Varna) and Lauta Army (Lokomotiv Plovdiv).
Azerbaijan
[edit]Several groups exist in Azerbaijan, with the most prominent being Forza Neftçi (Neftçi PFK), Köhne 13 (Neftçi PFK), and Kapaz Ultras (Kapaz PFK).
Croatia
[edit]There are many ultras groups in Croatia but the most popular are:
- Bad Blue Boys (Dinamo Zagreb, 1986)
- Torcida Split (Hajduk Split, 1950)
- Armada Rijeka (HNK Rijeka, 1987)
- Kohorta Osijek (NK Osijek, 1988)
- Tornado Zadar (HNK Zadar, KK Zadar, 1965)
- Demoni Pula (NK Istra 1961, 1992)
- Funcuti Šibenik (NK Šibenik, KK Šibenik, 1983)
- Ultras Vinkovci (HNK Cibalia, 1982)
Finland
[edit]- Niilon pojat, Vestito di nero (Ilves Tampere, 1931)
- Sakilaiset, Vecchi Ragazzi, Usual Suspects Helsinki(HJK Helsinki, 1907)
- 1922 Youths, 1922Casuals (TPS Turku, 1922)
- Red Army, ultras06 (Vaasan sport, 1962)
- Lahti youth huorat (FC Lahti, 1996)
- Raumam boja (Rauman Lukko, 1936)
- Itäpääty (FC Inter, 1990)
- Hakapeliitat (FC Haka, 1934)
- Stadin Kingit, Inferno (HIFK Helsinki, 1897)
Kazakhstan
[edit]Africa
[edit]Algeria
[edit]| Stadium | Club | Name |
|---|---|---|
| Ali La Pointe Stadium | MC Alger | – Ultras the Twelfth Player 2011 – Ultras Green Corsairs 2012 – Ultra' Amore E Mentalita |
| Stade du 5 Juillet, | USM Alger | – Les Unionistes Algérois – Alger Offender – El Assima |
| Nelson Mandela Stadium, | CR Belouizdad |
– Ultras Fanatic Reds 09 |
| Stade 8 Mai 1945, Setif | ES Setif | – Ultras Inferno 10 – Les Fidèles 58 – Ultras Gladiators 16 |
| May 19, 1956 Stadium | USM Annaba | – Les indepandants de bone 12 – Ultras Hippone |
| Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium | JS Kabylie | – Ultra Kabylie Boys 09 – Ultras The Leader 13 |
| Mohamed Hamlaoui Stadium, Constantine | CS Constantine | – Ultras Green Army 2012 – Ultra' Iqbal 2023 – Desctrolados |
| 1 November 1954 Stadium (Algiers) | USM El Harrach |
– Ultra' Combattiva 2020 |
| 20 August 1955 Stadium (Algiers), Algiers | NA Hussein Dey |
– Ultra Dey Boys 09 |
| Stade 20 Août 1955, Skikda | JSM Skikda | – Ultras Guardie Nere – Ultra' Capitano – Marinai 21 |
| Maghrebi Unity Stadium | MO Bejaia | – Ultras Granchio 09 – Ultras Saldae Kings 2011 – Ultras Free Men 16 – Ultra Mobiste |
| Rouibah Hocine Stadium | JS Djijel |
– Ultra' Green Gunners |
| Brakni Brothers Stadium | USM Blida |
– Ultras Green Killers 2014 |
| April 13, 1958 Stadium, Saida | MC Saida |
– Ultras Méga Boys 2007 |
| Miloud Hadefi Stadium, Oran | MC Oran | – Ultras Red Castle 2011 – Ultras Leones Rey 2009 – Forza Mouloudia |
| Mohamed Boumezrag Stadium, Chlef | ASO Chlef |
– Ultras Polina 10 |
| 1 November 1954 Stadium (Batna), | CA Batna | – Ultra' Autochtones 2024 |
| Stade Imam Lyes, Médéa | O Medea | – Ultra' Olympic Medea – Titteri Ragazzi 2024 |
| Stade Zerdani Hassouna | US Chaouia |
– Ultras Giallo Boys 13 |
| February 24, 1956 Stadium, Sidi Bel Abbès | USM Bel Abbès |
– Ultras Scorpion Trop Puissant |
| 20 August 1955 Stadium, Bordj Bou Arréridj | CA Bordj Bou Arréridj | – Ultras Commandos 2008 – Ultras Monstros 18 |
| El Alia Sports Complex | US Biskra |
– Ultras Vescera |
| Touhami Zoubir Khelifi Stadium | AS Aïn M'lila |
– Red Scorpion |
| Stade Akid Lotfi | WA Tlemcen |
– Ultras Kop 13 |
| Stade 20 Août 1955 (Béchar) | JS Saoura |
– Ultras Giallo Verde |
| Stade Messaoud Zougar | MC El Eulma |
– Ultras Vikings 2009 |
| Maghrebi Unity Stadium | JSM Bejaia |
– Ultras Gouraya United |
| 1 November 1954 Stadium (Batna), | MSP Batna |
– Les Genies |
| Ismaïl Makhlouf Stadium | RC Arbaâ |
– Ultras Blue Vichingo |
| Stade Tahar Zoughari | RC Relizane |
–Ultras Mina Men |
| Amar Hamam Stadium | USM Khenchela |
– Ultras Mascula 13 |
| Stade Mokhtar Abdelatif | Amal Bou Saâda |
– Ultras Ouled el Khadra |
| Habib Bouakeul Stadium | ASM Oran |
– Ultras Verde Lupo |