In April 1945, during the final months of World War II in Europe, Benito Mussolini, the leader of Italy, was captured by Italian partisans near Lake Como. Mussolini was executed and his body was displayed upside down in Milan, just as his Fascist regime had done to 15 local Resistance fighters the year before. Two days later, Adolf Hitler committed suicide in Berlin.
Tonight, Celtic will host Lazio in a Champions League match that goes beyond a simple game or a Group E qualifier. It is a clash between two fanbases with distinct cultures. When the two clubs met in the Europa League four years ago, Lazio ultras marched through Glasgow with Fascist salutes. However, upon arriving at Celtic’s stadium, Parkhead, they were taken aback by a local banner displaying Mussolini’s image – upside down with the words “Follow Your Leader”. This gesture was seen as a celebration of the defeat of fascism and aligned Celtic fans with anti-fascism.
There is a political spectrum among football fans in Europe, and Celtic and Lazio occupy opposite ends of this spectrum. Although there may be individuals who fall in between, the loudest voices are typically those of young and middle-aged men who are passionate about their club and create a testosterone-fueled environment while taking over foreign cities.
This passionate fan culture, known as ‘ultra culture’, originated in Italy in the 1960s and 70s and gained momentum in the 1980s and 90s. It has become an integral part of Italian football, with a deeper meaning and daily impact compared to other countries. Ultras find their identity within their clubs and their local communities, often aligning themselves with their district and town rather than their country or city.
Lazio’s ultras, known as the Irriducibili, have a far-right and neo-fascist identity that emerged from the turmoil of post-war Italy. However, it is important to note that not all Lazio fans share this identity. Over the years, the identity of ultras groups has evolved and changed, influenced by the political and social climate of the time.
The Irriducibili have had a significant influence within Lazio, even having access to the club’s training ground and engaging with players and management. They see their power and influence as legitimate, and they have been instrumental in shaping the atmosphere and selling point of Italian football.
While ultra culture has not taken off in Britain to the same extent as in Italy, Celtic’s ultras are considered legitimate due to their organization, numbers, power, and choreography. Celtic’s identity is closely associated with Irish culture, which sets them apart from other British clubs.
In summary, the clash between Celtic and Lazio is not just a football match; it represents a clash between two fanbases with distinct cultures. These cultures are deeply rooted in the historical and social context of their respective countries, and they reflect the range of political opinions within football fan communities across Europe.