Football is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life, a heartbeat that pulses through the veins of billions of people around the world. For some, this passion transcends mere fandom and becomes an all-encompassing devotion. These are the Ultras, the most ardent supporters whose dedication shapes the very soul of football.
This article dives into Ultra culture to explore who they are, what drives them, and how they transform match days into extraordinary spectacles.
Ultras take devotion to another level, becoming the heartbeat of the stadium. Unlike casual fans, Ultras are characterized by their intense commitment to their club, often involving coordinated displays of support that turn stadiums into cauldrons of noise and colour.
The origin story is widely understood to come from Croatia, where “Torcida Split,” the fan group of football club Hajduk Split, is considered to be the first organized Ultra group. However, it was in 1960s Italy where the culture gained serious momentum.
In cities like Milan, Rome, and Turin, Ultras began to form official groups, each with its own unique culture, rituals, and style. These early Ultras were inspired by a mix of local traditions and international influences, including the vibrant South American fan culture and the political activism prevalent in Europe at the time.
They adopted practices such as choreographed chanting, the creation of massive banners (Tifos), and the use of pyrotechnics to create an intimidating and electric atmosphere during matches.
While it can’t be ignored that certain Ultras groups have a negative history with racism and fascism (some still do), the culture has evolved with the majority of them actually promoting free expression, social unity, and bringing together fans with different beliefs.
Over the years, the Ultra movement spread beyond Italy, taking root in countries across Europe and Latin America. In France, groups like Paris Saint-Germain's "Le Collectif Ultras Paris" emerged, bringing their own flair and intensity to the stands.
In Germany, clubs like Borussia Dortmund became renowned for their "Yellow Wall.” Spain, Greece, and Eastern Europe also saw the rise of Ultra groups, each adapting the principles to their own local cultures and footballing traditions.
At the core of Ultra culture is an unrelenting passion for their club. This passion is not limited to watching games; it’s a lifestyle. Ultras see themselves as the custodians of their club’s heritage, maintaining traditions and ensuring the spirit of the team is never lost. Their activities extend beyond match days, involving social and community work, organizing events, and even political activism.
Preparation for a match is a ritualistic process that begins well in advance. Ultras gather to create their elaborate displays, known as Tifos. These displays are often breathtaking in scale and creativity, transforming stands into a living canvas that reflects the history, pride, and spirit of the club.
Borussia Dortmund’s Yellow Wall, made up of 25,000 supporters behind the goal, is the largest terrace for standing spectators in European football and is famed for its imposing, coordinated displays that send shivers down the spines of players and spectators alike. The sheer scale and intensity of their support make Signal Iduna Park one of the most intimidating venues for visiting teams.
The use of flares and pyrotechnics is another hallmark of Ultra culture. These elements add a dramatic and intimidating atmosphere to the stadium. Despite controversies and occasional safety concerns, the sight of thousands of flares lighting up the night sky, accompanied by deafening chants, is a spectacle that encapsulates the raw, unfiltered passion of these supporters. This practice, while risky, remains a deeply ingrained part of Ultra culture, symbolizing their intense passion.
Chants and songs are the heartbeats of the Ultra movement. These aren’t just random shouts; they are carefully crafted anthems that tell stories, celebrate victories, and taunt rivals. Clubs like Napoli and Boca Juniors boast some of the most passionate and creative chants, turning their stadiums into fortresses of support that energize the players.
In Europe, Napoli’s Commando Ultras Curva B, Red Star Belgrade's Delije, Olympique de Marseille's Commando Ultra 84 and Galatasary’s ultrAslan stand out as prime examples.
In Latin America, Boca Juniors’ La Doce is legendary for its relentless support. The atmosphere at La Bombonera is electric, with the rhythmic jumping of the stands creating a living, breathing force that intimidates opponents and inspires the home team. Similarly, Flamengo’s Raça Rubro-Negra transforms the Maracanã into a fortress, their choreographies and chants echoing through the historic stadium.
The Ultra movement is about more than just supporting a team; it’s about belonging to something bigger than oneself. It’s about community, identity, and unwavering loyalty.
Despite occasional negative headlines and a history marked with negativity that can’t be ignored, the core of Ultra culture has evolved and is today, for the most part, a positive force bringing people together and creating an atmosphere that is unique to football. They are the pulse of the stadium, the lifeblood of the sport, turning each match into a spectacle that transcends the game itself.
Thanks for reading, David Skilling
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