Violence Erupts in Rome as Lazio Ultras Attack Real Sociedad Fans Ahead of Europa League Match

A brutal attack by hardcore Lazio fans on Real Sociedad supporters shook central Rome late Wednesday, leaving nine people injured, including three with stab wounds, as tensions escalated ahead of the Europa League match between the two clubs.

The violent clash occurred near the Colosseum in the Monti district, where approximately 70 Real Sociedad fans were gathered at an Irish pub on Via Leonina. They were reportedly ambushed by around 80 Lazio ultras armed with knives, hammers, metal chains, and bats. Witnesses described the attack as chaotic, with explosions and shouts filling the air as people fled the scene.

Footage shared on social media showed a gang dressed in black, allegedly Lazio ultras, running through the streets and shouting threats, including “we kill everyone.”

According to police reports, three victims remain hospitalized, including a 23-year-old who is in serious condition. Others received treatment for injuries caused by the assault but were discharged shortly after. Italian authorities have seized weapons from the scene and are analyzing CCTV footage to identify those involved.

Real Sociedad fans had been enjoying an evening out when the incident occurred, and it remains unclear whether any of their own ultra supporters, often associated with left-wing ideologies, were present or targeted. Lazio ultras, notorious for their far-right affiliations and violent history, are suspected of orchestrating the attack.

Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, condemned the violence as “shameful and unacceptable,” emphasizing that the city should not be marred by such acts of barbarity. “These scenes offend the citizens of Rome and the spirit of sport,” he stated. “I trust that police investigations will bring those responsible to justice.”

Security has been heightened in Rome ahead of Thursday’s match at the Stadio Olimpico, with Lazio currently leading their Europa League group. Real Sociedad, sitting mid-table in La Liga, hopes to secure points in their bid for European success.

This is not the first time Lazio ultras, known as the "Irriducibili," have been involved in controversy. They have a long history of violent and extremist behavior, including fascist salutes and anti-Semitic incidents, such as a 2017 episode where they defaced Rome’s Stadio Olimpico with stickers depicting Anne Frank in a Roma jersey alongside hate-filled slogans.

Walter Verini, an Italian senator and anti-mafia committee coordinator, expressed concern over the recurring violence linked to extremist elements within football fanbases. “This armed violence is not just about football—it also reflects delusional political ideologies that poison the sport,” he stated.

As investigations continue, the incident has reignited debates about the persistent problem of football hooliganism and its intersection with political extremism in Italy.

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay / jorono, Pexels / Julius Silver