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Recent incidents involving violent fan behavior and criminal activity have cast a shadow over European football, with arrests in Milan revealing mafia connections within ultra fan groups and disruptions at a Madrid derby.
Ultra Fans in Milan Arrested for Mafia Ties and Extortion
Nineteen prominent “ultra” fans associated with Inter Milan and AC Milan have been arrested by Italian authorities on charges of extortion and alleged ties to the ‘Ndrangheta mafia. The arrests mark a significant development in ongoing investigations into the criminal activities of football fan clubs, which have reportedly evolved into organized crime groups.
Prosecutors highlighted the infiltration of mafia elements into fan organizations, turning them into vehicles for ticket scams, protection rackets, and extortion schemes. These activities were centered around the San Siro stadium, home to both Serie A giants Inter and AC Milan.
“This investigation forces us to confront the risks of mafia influence in stadiums,” said Giovanni Melillo, National Anti-Mafia and Anti-Terrorism Chief Prosecutor, during a press conference. Milan’s chief prosecutor, Marcello Viola, noted that both football clubs were “victims” of these schemes, as ultra leaders pressured officials for large volumes of tickets to resell illegally.
Inter Milan has yet to comment, while AC Milan has pledged full cooperation with authorities. The arrests come just weeks after Andrea Beretta, a leader of the Inter ultras, was detained for the alleged murder of Antonio Bellocco, a prominent figure in the Calabrian ‘Ndrangheta syndicate. Beretta claims self-defense, but prosecutors believe his actions were motivated by a financial dispute with the mob.
While Inter and AC Milan remain fierce sporting rivals, investigators revealed that their respective ultra groups had formed a non-violence pact to maximize profits from their illicit activities. Milan prosecutor Paolo Storari emphasized the need for structural changes within the clubs to prevent further criminal infiltration. “If there is no change in how these groups operate, others will simply step in to continue the crimes,” Storari warned.
Fan Banned After Violent Madrid Derby Incident
Atletico Madrid has issued a permanent stadium ban to a supporter who threw an object onto the pitch during Sunday’s heated derby match against Real Madrid. The game, held at Atletico’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium, was halted for 20 minutes as objects were hurled at Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois following Real’s second-half goal.
Although Atletico managed to secure a 1-1 draw thanks to Angel Correa’s late equalizer, the incident has marred the club’s reputation. In a statement, Atletico confirmed that their Security Department is working closely with police to identify other individuals involved in the disruption. Those identified will also face permanent bans from the stadium.
The club has vowed to prevent such incidents in the future by prohibiting any attire or accessories that could conceal a person’s identity inside the stadium. The derby drama comes just days before Atletico is set to visit Benfica for their upcoming Champions League match.
These twin developments – mafia involvement in Milan’s ultra fan groups and violent disruptions in Madrid – underscore the growing concerns over the intersection of organized crime and violent fan behavior in European football. Both incidents highlight the urgent need for stronger regulations and cooperation between clubs, law enforcement, and football authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of the sport.
