The 21st edition of the Ultras Tito Cucchiaroni Festival took place at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium in Genoa, bringing together hundreds of Sampdoria supporters, former players and members of the Blucerchiati community. This year's event carried extra significance as it was held for the first time inside the iconic Gradinata Sud, the beating heart of Sampdoria's ultras movement.
As in previous years, the festival featured competitions, live entertainment and opportunities for supporters to gather and celebrate their shared identity. However, the future of Sampdoria and the role of ultras groups in modern Italian football quickly became the central themes of the evening.
During various discussions, representatives of Gradinata Sud expressed concern over what they described as a growing crisis within Italian football, as well as increasing pressure from authorities on organised supporters. They spoke about the restrictions ultras groups have faced in recent years and stressed the importance of preserving the traditions, identity and culture of the terraces.
The strongest emotions of the night emerged when the focus shifted towards Sampdoria's current ownership. Chants echoed throughout the stadium, with supporters repeatedly shouting:
"Via gli infami dalla Sampdoria!"
"Get the traitors out of Sampdoria!"
Another message that resonated throughout the festival was:
"Liberate la Samp!"
"Free Sampdoria!"
Members of Ultras Tito Cucchiaroni and Gradinata Sud called on all Sampdoria supporters to continue voicing their opposition to the club's leadership and to take part in future demonstrations in greater numbers.
"If they want war, they'll get it," one speaker declared from the stage, urging at least two to three thousand Blucerchiati fans to join every protest organised in defence of the club.
According to the ultras, the issue does not lie with individuals such as Andrea Mancini, Giovanni Invernizzi or Attilio Lombardo, figures closely associated with Sampdoria who have recently left or seen their roles reduced. Instead, their criticism is directed at the current ownership, whom they accuse of failing to respect the club's history, values and identity.
One of the highlights of the festival was the presence of former Sampdoria manager Beppe Iachini and ex-captain Marco Lanna. Both men thanked the supporters for their unwavering loyalty and underlined the crucial role that Gradinata Sud has always played in the life of the club.
The Ultras Tito Cucchiaroni Festival once again demonstrated that ultras culture in Italy extends far beyond matchdays. For many members of Gradinata Sud, Sampdoria represents much more than football. It is a symbol of belonging, tradition and a way of life passed down through generations.
As a new season approaches, the message from Luigi Ferraris remains clear. Sampdoria supporters want a club that once again reflects the values and identity that have defined it for decades.
Because, as Gradinata Sud continues to remind everyone, Sampdoria is not only to be loved, but also defended.