Inside the Ultras World: An Anonymous Insider Speaks
A former ultras participant describes how loyalty, fear, and influence can intersect with money and informal access to power — without naming clubs, cities, or individuals.
Transcript
“Love for a club should never become someone else’s business tool.”
— Anonymous interviewee
How old were you when you first became involved with the ultras scene, and what pulled you in?
I was around 14 or 15. I felt lonely and believed the group would protect me and understand me. I loved football, and the ultras displays felt spectacular. Traveling and building atmosphere gave meaning to a time in my life that had little joy.
At what moment did you realize the ultras world was more than football and choreography?
After a couple of years. In my situation, it was also about financial gains for certain individuals and relationships with people close to the club and the city.
What kinds of relationships did you start noticing around leadership?
Leaders built relationships with club officials, players, managers, and sometimes presidents. They also connected with businessmen who were fans and had access to people in local administration.
Can you describe a concrete example of how money moved?
Business owners gave money “for choreographies” or provided buses for away matches. But regular members still paid, without knowing donations already existed. Often the outside support did not reach the wider group.
When you understood this, what did it do to you personally?
It was painful. Most of us were not wealthy. We made real sacrifices to follow the team. When you realize you were used, you feel disappointed.
Were you alone in seeing this, or did others experience it too?
I wasn’t alone. Through contacts with other groups, I learned similar patterns existed elsewhere. I can’t say it is everywhere, but it is not a singular case.
What happened when someone asked leaders for transparency?
Leaders attacked them verbally, insulted them, and humiliated them in front of everyone. The goal was to make the person look jealous, weak, or dishonest.
How was fear maintained inside the group?
There was social pressure and sometimes physical violence. Leaders also had strong “intervention” people around them. Connections and consequences made people obey.
In your experience, what was more powerful: violence or humiliation?
Humiliation can be enough. Being shamed in front of 100–200 people destroys your image. Sometimes they do not have to beat you to control you.
How close were leaders to players and officials?
Very close. Leaders could receive advantages: money, business opportunities, or introductions. Some players kept relations calm to avoid problems.
Did ordinary ultras members benefit from these relationships?
Only in a small way. If the group received something, it was usually a small part. The inner circle gained much more.
Can you explain that imbalance simply?
Like a cake: the group gets thin slices; the leaders and closest people take most. Enough is given to keep loyalty.
Were these practices openly discussed?
No. Regular members suspected, but they didn’t have direct access to information. Only a few had the real picture.
Did you witness direct extortion of players?
Not “pay or else” violence. It was more indirect: leaders had a reputation, and players preferred to avoid conflict. Sometimes leaders asked for money “for this or that,” and players paid.
How did club presidents or owners treat ultras leadership?
Often as a useful tool. They may not like leaders personally, but they use them to manage atmosphere and reduce problems, especially when results are bad.
How did police treat ultras leaders compared to normal ultras?
Police often treated ultras harshly. But some leaders had different relationships. Some had double agendas: ultras publicly, connections privately.
Did you ever see evidence of leaders cooperating with authorities?
I can confirm leaders had strong relationships with police and local authorities. They could access powerful people quickly, in ways normal citizens could not.
With everything you saw, did you lose belief in ultras culture?
No. The majority truly love the club and stay loyal in bad times. That dedication is real. The problem is when a few leaders combine support with personal advantage.
What pushed you to step away?
I didn’t want to be manipulated. I left ultras groups, but I never left the club as a fan.
What is your message to young fans today?
Support your team, but keep your dignity. Never accept intimidation. You can support the club without joining a group. If threatened, speak up, seek help, and respect the law. Criminals target fear and silence.
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