MILAN – In a decisive move aimed at reclaiming control of stadium terraces, Milanese football giants Inter and AC Milan have jointly refused season ticket renewals for hundreds of individuals deemed “unwelcome” for the upcoming season. This stringent measure follows a recent police investigation, code-named `Doppia curva`, which shed light on alleged criminal activities and undue influence within organised fan groups.
Working in close collaboration with Milan`s Public Prosecutor`s Office and police headquarters, the clubs have leveraged their ethical codes to block season ticket access. The rejected fans include those previously issued stadium bans (Daspo), as well as individuals flagged or administratively sanctioned for disorderly conduct or involvement in violent incidents. The objective is clear: to prevent a system perceived as criminal from re-establishing itself within the stadium environment.
This action represents a significant escalation in the efforts to enhance security and civility at San Siro. It builds upon previous steps, such as the reported cancellation of the `Curva Nord` and `Curva Sud` group trademarks. The message is unambiguous: behaviour that contravenes club regulations or legal standards will result in exclusion from the stadium.
Enhanced Security Measures Introduced
Beyond the outright refusal of season tickets to problematic individuals, the clubs are implementing additional security protocols. Notably, season tickets in the curva sections – traditionally the stronghold of ultra groups – will be non-transferable. This aims to curtail the practice of tickets being passed between individuals, potentially including those who would otherwise be barred from entry.
Furthermore, a new, comprehensive security plan for San Siro is underway. This plan includes the installation of facial recognition cameras at the turnstiles, a technology expected to become operational early next year. While the cameras are not yet active for the start of the upcoming season, their planned deployment signals a commitment to long-term, high-tech surveillance to identify and prevent entry to individuals with problematic histories.
The crackdown, while welcomed by many as a necessary step towards a safer and more orderly stadium experience, also highlights the complex, long-standing relationship between clubs and organised fan groups in Italian football. Breaking down deeply entrenched structures is a considerable challenge, and the effectiveness and longevity of these measures will be closely watched.
This unified stance by Inter and AC Milan sends a strong signal that clubs are increasingly prepared to take direct action, supported by law enforcement, to address issues of violence and criminality in the stands, prioritising stadium safety and compliance with ethical and legal standards over potentially uncomfortable confrontations with powerful fan factions.
Murray Blackwood