Italian football clubs Inter and AC Milan are taking a significant, unprecedented step to control access to their home ground, San Siro. Ahead of the upcoming season, both teams have collectively rejected hundreds of season ticket applications from individuals categorized as “unwelcome fans.” This move represents a concerted effort to address long-standing issues of organized fan behavior and criminal influence within sections of the stadium.
The drastic measure follows directly from findings revealed in the “Doppia curva” (Double Curve) investigation conducted in previous months. Authorities and club management share a clear objective: to dismantle and prevent the resurgence of a “criminal system” that has reportedly operated within the fan groups over the years. This investigation appears to have provided the necessary impetus, or perhaps the undeniable evidence, for the clubs to finally take decisive action where perhaps the courage was previously lacking.
The criteria for being deemed “unwelcome” and consequently denied a season ticket are based on ethical codes agreed upon by both clubs in collaboration with the Milan Public Prosecutor`s Office and police headquarters. This list includes fans with prior *Daspo* orders (official stadium bans), those who have received administrative sanctions for improper conduct, or individuals implicated in violent incidents. The collaboration with justice, including information potentially provided by former ultras leaders, has seemingly played a crucial role in identifying these individuals.
The crackdown isn`t limited to blocking specific individuals. As part of broader security enhancements and a move away from the traditional, often problematic, power structures within the curvas, the official “Curva Nord” and “Curva Sud” branding has been cancelled. Furthermore, season tickets purchased for these specific stands will now be non-transferable, eliminating a pathway for unauthorized or banned individuals to gain entry using another person`s ticket. Adding another layer of control, a new security plan for San Siro includes the installation of facial recognition cameras at the turnstiles, which are expected to be operational by the start of the next calendar year.
This coordinated effort between two of Italy`s biggest clubs and law enforcement signals a firm intent to clean up the stadium environment. While some may lament the potential loss of the raw, passionate atmosphere traditionally generated by organized fan groups, the clubs and authorities are prioritizing safety and the removal of criminal elements. It`s a notable step in a country where the influence of ultras groups has often been a complex and challenging issue for football governance.
