Football Hooliganism

Football hooliganism has existed long before the sport became organized. The earliest forms were sporadic bursts usually targeted towards referees and authority. Since the 1960's, there has been intensive growth in organized hooliganism amongst British supporters. This trend gradually spread across many European nations especially Italy, Holland and Germany. By the early to mid-1970s, the major European teams had extremist supporters producing intense and persistent club rivalries. Club teams experience more support due to their localized disposition. Fans believe that regional clubs "represent" them more intimately. Notable rivalries include: Millwall vs. West-Ham United, Celtic vs. Rangers and Boca Juniors vs. River Plate. On the international stage, feuds are usually fuelled by concurrent political issues. The most prevalent rivalries include England vs. Argentina, Brazil vs. Argentina, Scotland vs. England and Mexico vs. Honduras.

During the mid-1980s, Italian Ultras (ultra fans) pioneered what was considered to be fanatical or hooligan support. Their organized theatrical (often illegal) methods involve chanting, displaying massive banners, breaking seats, fireworks, smoke bombs and even releasing small explosives, were all done at pivotal points of a match. Ultras would transform matches into spectacles but at times their behaviour would advance to violence. Many clubs have been penalized for the violent actions of their hooligan supporters, whether it paying a fine or having points deducted in certain competitions. Most nations have strict security measures which have reduced hooliganism outside of the stadium, yet it still exist.

Hooligan groups are driven by various motives. Some express neo-Nazi and racist tendencies, frequently done to shock the enemy team and to produce a more hostile environment. With the World Cup being played in South Africa this June there is a possibility of hooliganism, but extreme precaution is being taken. Regardless of the individuals or organizations reasoning for engaging in this act it is barbaric, and therefore has football hooliganism has no place in any aspect of the beautiful game.