Lazio Ultras Attack Real Sociedad Fans in Rome, Leaving Nine Injured

ROME (AP) — Nine football fans, including one in serious condition, were injured in a violent attack allegedly carried out by hardcore Lazio supporters in central Rome late Wednesday. The incident occurred outside an Irish pub in the Monti district, just hours before Lazio’s Europa League match against Real Sociedad at Stadio Olimpico.

According to Italian media reports, approximately 80 Lazio ultras armed with clubs, chains, knives, and hammers targeted a group of about 70 Real Sociedad fans. Three victims were hospitalized with stab wounds, including a 23-year-old in critical condition. Three others were treated and discharged, while three more received emergency care before leaving the hospital.

Italian police have seized weapons used in the attack and are reviewing CCTV footage to identify suspects. A video posted on social media, purportedly showing the incident, captures a gang dressed in black shouting “we kill everyone” as they run through the streets.

Walter Verini, a senator and coordinator of an anti-mafia parliamentary committee, condemned the attack, calling it “further confirmation of the severity of a problem which, unfortunately, concerns parts of a fanbase.” He added, “Not all fans are criminals. It seems to be understood that this armed violence is somehow also linked to delusional political extremists, in the case of far-right.”

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri described the attacks as “shameful and unacceptable,” emphasizing that the city “strongly rejects these scenes of crazy violence which offend the city, its citizens, and the spirit of sport.” He expressed confidence that police investigations would soon identify those responsible.

The attack has heightened security concerns ahead of Thursday’s match, with authorities working to determine whether the assault was premeditated. Lazio ultras, known for their far-right political affiliations, have a history of violent clashes with opposing fan groups.

Lazio currently leads the Europa League standings, while Real Sociedad sits in 12th place among 36 teams. The incident has cast a shadow over the upcoming match, raising questions about fan safety and the influence of extremist ideologies in football culture.