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| Foto: Ultras Avanti |
The Genoa Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation into 45 Sampdoria ultras, including six minors, over incidents that took place during the match against Reggiana at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on 27 December 2025.
The case centres on a protest that unfolded during half-time, when a group of supporters left the Gradinata Sud and moved towards the VIP area of the stadium. Their apparent intention was to confront Matteo Manfredi, who was serving as Sampdoria’s president at the time and had been the target of growing anger from the club’s organised support. Tensions had been building for months as the relationship between the Gradinata Sud and the club’s leadership deteriorated. Supporters had repeatedly expressed their frustration through banners, chants and public demonstrations, accusing those in charge of failing to protect Sampdoria’s identity and future.
During the interval against Reggiana, dozens of fans reportedly crossed from the southern stand towards the main tribune and VIP boxes. Police officers and stadium stewards intervened before they could reach Manfredi, preventing the situation from developing into a direct confrontation. The incident is now being examined under Article 6-bis, paragraph 2, of Italy’s legislation governing conduct at sporting events. The provision concerns the unauthorised crossing of barriers between stadium sections and entry into restricted areas or onto the pitch.
The investigation was carried out by DIGOS, the Italian police division responsible for public order and security matters. Officers reconstructed the events using stadium surveillance footage and other recordings from inside the Luigi Ferraris, identifying 45 people believed to have taken part in the movement towards the VIP section. Six of those under investigation are minors. Represented by lawyer Matteo Carpi, they have already been questioned by the Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office. According to their statements, they followed the crowd after seeing other supporters leave the Gradinata Sud and denied having any role in organising the action.
Their explanation was simple: “Everyone went, so we went too.”
If found guilty, those involved could face a prison sentence of up to one year, a fine of up to €5,000 and a DASPO banning order, which would prevent them from attending football matches and other sporting events.
The case highlights the increasingly serious consequences that can follow when terrace protests move beyond the stands and into restricted areas of a stadium. While the confrontation was avoided, the authorities are now attempting to establish the precise role played by each individual. For Sampdoria’s organised support, the investigation comes during a period marked by deep frustration, instability and open conflict with the club’s leadership. The Gradinata Sud has long been one of the strongest voices around the club, but the events of 27 December have placed dozens of supporters at risk of criminal charges and long-term exclusion from the terraces.
The investigation remains at a preliminary stage, and none of those involved has been convicted. Individual responsibility will have to be determined before any final penalties are imposed.