An attack by Lazio ultras against Real Sociedad supporters on the evening of Wednesday January 22 in Rome left nine people injured, all Spaniards, one of whom is in serious condition, Italian media reported on Thursday. Some 80 ultras from Lazio attacked around 70 supporters of the Spanish club who came to Rome to attend the Europa League match which is being held on Thursday evening at the Olympic Stadium, according to the AGI agency.
In the very center of the Italian capital, in the tourist district of Monti, Spanish supporters were beaten, some having received stabbings. The attackers, dressed in black and with their faces hidden by hoods, used smoke bombs and large firecrackers. Chairs and tables were also thrown, according to the newspaper The Corriere della Sera. It is Lazio ultras, some of whom are known for their sympathy towards the extreme right, who are at the origin of these episodes of violence, according to the police, who seized a whole arsenal (knives, iron bars, hammers…).
Rivalry with a political tone
Several troublemakers were arrested when the police arrived, alerted by residents of the neighborhood. Images from local surveillance cameras are also being examined. The police are also trying to determine whether the attack was premeditated, given the rivalry with a political tone between Lazio fans and those of the Basque team.
“While awaiting developments in the investigation into the events that occurred during the night”the Italian club “condemns all forms of violence” and ensures that he “will act firmly by applying the strictest measures” against his possibly guilty fans, according to the press release.
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