Real Madrid Takes Action Against Banned Supporters’ Group Ultras Sur
Real Madrid has pledged to take action after members of the Ultras Sur, a banned supporters’ group, were spotted at their recent Champions League fixture against Braga in Portugal. This move comes in response to a letter released by 150 other Madrid supporters’ groups from around the world, urging the club to prevent the Ultras Sur from gaining access to tickets and investigate how its members were able to attend the match.
The Ultras Sur is a right-wing Madrid fans’ group that was banned from the Santiago Bernabeu by club president Florentino Perez back in December 2013. However, the group has still managed to attend away games, particularly in the Champions League. Videos circulating on social media showed the Ultras Sur engaging in racist and fascist chants during and before the Braga match.
According to the letter, Madrid fans in the away section of the Municipal Stadium during the Braga game felt like they were treated as an “undesirable and dangerous group” due to the heavy presence of armed police. This was attributed to the attendance of the Ultras Sur, who are easily recognizable by their all-black attire.
Real Madrid has responded to the letter by stating that they will take action: “Deeds and not words. We are working on it. They (the Ultras Sur) are scoundrels and they are going to pay dearly.” The club is considering various measures, including revoking membership cards from club members who provided tickets to the Ultras Sur.
The letter also criticizes individuals who sold tickets to the banned group, stating that they enable the Ultras Sur to continue tarnishing Real Madrid’s image with violence and abuse. The letter emphasizes the need for the club to identify these members and supporters’ clubs that facilitate the Ultras Sur’s activities, which promote violence, racism, and discrimination in stadiums and cities visited by Real Madrid.
The Athletic has reached out to Braga for comment on the matter.
Real Madrid’s response to the presence of the Ultras Sur at the Braga match reflects the club’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all fans. By taking decisive action against the banned group, Real Madrid aims to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
The Ultras Sur’s history of involvement in racist and fascist chants highlights the need for stricter measures to prevent their access to matches. It is crucial for clubs to thoroughly investigate how banned supporters’ groups manage to attend games and implement stronger security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all fans.
Real Madrid’s consideration of withdrawing membership cards from members who provided tickets to the Ultras Sur demonstrates their determination to hold individuals accountable for their actions. By targeting those who enable the banned group’s activities, the club aims to disrupt their operations and prevent further incidents.
The support from 150 other Madrid supporters’ groups worldwide showcases the unity among fans in condemning the Ultras Sur’s behavior. This collective voice puts additional pressure on Real Madrid to take swift and effective action against the banned group.
In conclusion, Real Madrid’s promise to take action against the Ultras Sur is a significant step towards addressing the issue of banned supporters’ groups infiltrating matches. By prioritizing the safety and reputation of the club, Real Madrid sends a strong message that they will not tolerate any form of violence, racism, or discrimination within their fanbase. The club’s efforts to identify and penalize individuals involved in facilitating the Ultras Sur’s activities demonstrate their commitment to upholding the values of inclusivity and respect.