Ultras Lifestyle

To discuss this article click here
The following information and percentages were all collected from a survey I personally made. A number of questions were sent via email to 50 ultras from Italy, France, Poland, Holland, Israel, Belgium, Norway, Croatia and Romania.

Age: Most of the ultras were between the ages of 17 and 31. Quite amusing is the fact that one of the tifo crew is of just 14 years and very active in his group. Most of the members have been for about 3 years as active members. 94% of the respondents are member in ultras groups from the above countries, while only 7 out of 50 are the Kapo [group leader]. The favourite music with ultras is any hard style music and rock. 96% have never attended an ultras demonstration.

The following are a number of questions related to the ultra scene and lifestyle.


All the respondents are 100% against modern football mainly due to a large influx of money especially from commercials, high transfer fees, and extreme wages and high- ground costs.


Asked whether they have an ultra symbol as a tattoo; 80% responded that they do not have, while 20% are think on having one.


An interesting question was about what clothes ultras wear, and if they stick to any brand name. 35% stick to brand names, mainly La Coste, Fred Perry and Stone Island, 50% wear normal casual clothes and 15% wear clothes of their respective group.


It was quite nice to learn that in many countries especially Scandinavia and Holland, the ultras group do not stay in the Nord or Sud Curva, but in The West or East sides. The ultras most loyal to the Curva are in Italy and France.


92% of those who responded attend all the matches played by their team, including the away matches.


The large majority stated that they prefer smoke-bombs than flares due to the fact that they are much easier to light off because of the cameras; yet the flares make a nicer atmosphere.


Almost 99% prefer old style painted flags then printed flags.

Some interesting facts about ultras relation with cops:

• 72% have been caught hiding flares / smoke bombs while entering the stadium
• 30% have been arrested [3% while stealing banners from other ultras groups, 40% lightening flares, 57% because of riots and fights]

Interesting is the fact that 45% stated they had stolen a banner from other ultras groups, and 50% plan to do so.

Regarding funds and expenses:

• On average ultras members spend around 2000 euros a year to watch matches
• With regards to pyros / banners and flags expenses they range from 200 euros to 2500 euros a year. Some groups make fund raising between all the members, others have an annual membership fee, while others opt to buy from their own personal expense.

The final question was “Which country has the best ultras scene?” The following where mentioned: Italy, Poland, Holland and the Balkan region.