In Italy, soccer ‘ultras’—intense and sometimes violent fan groups—are increasingly under the influence of organized crime, tarnishing the sport’s cultural legacy. Once symbols of passionate support, these fan groups have become entangled with mafia factions like the Camorra from Naples, the ‘Ndrangheta from Calabria, and the Sicilian Mafia. These criminal organizations manipulate the ultras to control betting markets, sell counterfeit merchandise, and extort clubs for protection money, exploiting their loyalty and readiness for violence.
This mafia presence is most visible in southern Italy, where economic hardships make young men vulnerable to criminal influence. The ultras, known for their aggressive rivalries and street brawls, are easily recruited into these underworld activities. Mafia groups promise financial gain and protection, creating a dangerous synergy that blurs the lines between fandom and organized crime.
While Italian law enforcement has ramped up efforts to dismantle these criminal networks through raids and arrests, the mafia’s reach remains entrenched. In some cases, certain fan groups have been so infiltrated by the mafia that it’s difficult to distinguish between the two. This growing threat not only undermines the integrity of football but also raises concerns about the safety and future of the sport in Italy.
Although the passionate chants and colorful displays remain at the core of Italian football culture, the rise of mafia involvement casts a shadow over the game. As authorities struggle to regain control, the challenge of separating football from crime continues to grow, putting the sport’s legacy in peril.