In the wake of a recent investigation that led to the arrest of 19 ultras, both Inter and AC Milan find themselves in a precarious situation. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has requested the case files, raising questions about potential consequences for the clubs and their registered members.
Club Consequences
Sportmediaset (via Calciomercato) report that for Inter Milan, a “preventive procedure” has been initiated by the prosecutor’s office. Consultants have been appointed to assess whether the club has severed ties with the ultras. If the club fails to demonstrate this, it could face administrative oversight. AC Milan is in a similar position, as both clubs (though not under investigation themselves) must prove they have distanced themselves from their respective ultras groups.
Player Implications
On the sports justice front, the large-scale police operation could have repercussions for some registered members of both clubs. Initial wiretaps have mentioned Inter coach Simone Inzaghi, Milan captain Davide Calabria, and former Inter player Milan Skriniar (now at PSG). FIGC investigators will focus on phone calls involving the coach and meetings held by the Slovak defender and the Milan full-back.
The nature of these conversations will be crucial, particularly in determining whether these individuals received any intimidation. The case revolves around Article 25 of the Sports Justice Code, which prohibits interactions with organized fan groups.
Potential Sanctions
Sanctions for violating Article 25 are outlined in Article 9 of the Code. Registered members risk fines, match suspensions, and temporary bans for directors. However, Inter and Milan are unlikely to face objective responsibility, meaning they should avoid point deductions.
The Sports Justice Code also regulates the relationships that registered members should maintain with organized fan groups. Article 25 specifically addresses the “Prevention of violent acts.” It prohibits clubs from financing organized groups and forbids registered members from interacting with supporters or submitting to intimidating, offensive, or denigrating behaviour during matches or in situations related to their activities.
