The violent clashes that marred the Coppa Italia derby between Genoa and Sampdoria, both inside and outside the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Marassi, are set to have significant repercussions. Authorities are currently considering closing the stadium for both clubs’ next two home games and imposing a travel ban for Genoa-based fans for the next three away matches.
Paolo Cortis, the outgoing president of CASMS (National Observatory on Sporting Events), spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport (via Calciomercato) about the severity of the incident. He emphasized that a strong message will be sent to discourage such behavior in the future.
Cortis explained the high-risk nature of the match: “We had already assigned risk level 4 to the derby, the highest level, with significant police reinforcements.” He added, “We knew it was an explosive situation. There was hope, which remained just that, of avoiding major problems. The club presidents did everything possible to create balanced situations, but when dealing with ultras of this level, you’re only dealing with violent individuals where the sporting component is minimal.”
The aftermath of the violence was severe, with Cortis stating, “The toll of 36 injured is extremely heavy. I repeat, 36 injured is not tolerable. Unfortunately, the police forces now serve as human shields, and this is unacceptable.”
Regarding potential sanctions, Cortis said, “CASMS has suggested measures to be adopted by the Prefect of Genoa, who will soon issue the order.” On the possibility of closed-door matches, he commented, “Normally, closed-door games are avoided to prevent worse situations, but in this case, there’s a strong desire to send a message, even at the cost of having to resolve some problems outside the stadium. We will be there as always, of course.”
Cortis traced the origin of the conflict: “We’ve had difficult episodes before, but this time it went too far. It all stems from May 5th, with clashes between Sampdoria supporters and some Genoa ultras, including the theft of banners – these are affronts that ultras cannot tolerate.”
The final decision on stadium closures and travel bans is expected soon from the Prefect of Genoa, as authorities grapple with the challenge of preventing future violence while maintaining the integrity of the sport.
