Rome derby clashes likened to ‘urban warfare’ with 24 police officers injured

The recent Rome derby between Lazio and Roma was marred by violence as clashes between fans and police resulted in 24 law enforcement officers being injured, one arrest, and over 40,000 euros ($45,000) in damages to garbage dumpsters. The chaotic scenes unfolded in a heavily populated area where fans had gathered before the Serie A game.

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri expressed his disgust at the violence, stating, “It’s unacceptable that hooligans transform a day of sport into a scene of urban warfare.” The situation escalated when Lazio’s hardcore “ultra” fans attempted to breach a barricaded area, prompting a response from the 2,000 police officers stationed around the Stadio Olimpico.

In response to the fans’ aggression, police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. The Serie A league judge, Gerardo Mastrandrea, announced fines for both clubs due to supporters throwing flares onto the field during the game. Roma and Lazio were fined 6,000 euros ($6,800) and 4,000 euros ($4,500) respectively.

The derby, which was scheduled for an 8:45 p.m. kickoff this season to prevent violence, may revert to earlier start times in the future. Both Lazio and Roma condemned the violence and expressed solidarity with the injured police officers.

Despite the unrest, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. The Rome derby has a history of violence, with incidents such as the suspension of the derby in 2004 due to a false rumor of a police killing and a car fire outside the stadium earlier this season.

The authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damages caused by the clashes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in ensuring safety and security in high-profile sporting events.