A Joint Effort to Clean Up the Curva
MILAN – Italy`s football capital is witnessing a significant shift in stadium policy. Inter Milan and AC Milan, the two giants sharing the iconic San Siro stadium, have announced a decisive and robust stance against what they term `unwelcome fans`. This crackdown, implemented during the season ticket campaigns for the upcoming season, represents a direct response to findings from recent investigations aimed at dismantling criminal elements long associated with organized fan groups, or `ultras`.
Following months of scrutiny, including an investigation dubbed `Doppia curva` (Double Curve), the clubs, in close cooperation with the Milan Prosecutor`s Office and Police Headquarters, have taken the extraordinary step of rejecting hundreds of season ticket renewal requests. These rejections are not arbitrary; they are based on ethical codes adopted by both clubs and target individuals with a history of stadium bans (Daspo), those flagged or administratively sanctioned for improper conduct, or participation in violent incidents. Notably, information provided by Andrea Beretta, a former leader of Inter`s ultras who has collaborated with judicial authorities, also factored into the decision-making process.
The clear objective, shared by the clubs and legal authorities, is to prevent the recurrence of the criminal systems that have unfortunately taken root within certain fan sections over the years. This move follows prior actions, such as the cancellation of the “Curva Nord” (Inter) and “Curva Sud” (Milan) brand names, although the practical implications of that particular step were perhaps less immediately felt than a direct ban from attending matches.
The measures extend beyond simply denying access to individuals. In a move designed to increase accountability and reduce illicit ticket trafficking, season tickets for the curva sections will now be non-transferable. This means the person whose name is on the ticket is the only person who can use it to enter the stadium.
Adding another layer to the enhanced security plan for San Siro is the planned introduction of facial recognition cameras at the turnstiles. This technology is expected to become operational early next year (circa 2026, based on the July 2025 date of this development), providing an additional tool for identifying and preventing entry to those who have been banned or flagged by authorities.
This joint effort by Inter, AC Milan, and local law enforcement marks a significant escalation in the battle to reclaim stadiums from elements that prioritize control and illicit activity over genuine support for the team. While some lament the potential impact on the passionate atmosphere traditionally generated by organized groups, the clubs and authorities appear determined that a safe and lawful environment for all attendees is the non-negotiable priority. It seems, finally, that the unwelcome are truly becoming… unwelcome.
