Clashes in Turin delay derby; fan in critical condition
Translated from Italian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A Juventus fan is in critical condition with a head injury following clashes between rival supporters before the Turin derby.
- The match, initially scheduled for 8:45 PM, was delayed by over an hour due to the violence.
- Some Juventus ultras left the stadium, and Torino fans removed their choreography in protest.
The derby match between Torino and Juventus was delayed by over an hour, finally kicking off after 9:45 PM, following violent clashes between rival ultras. The Bianconeri curva remained empty as tensions escalated when news spread of a 45-year-old ultra suffering a severe head injury during afternoon street fighting.
The injured fan was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, undergoing surgery. The exact cause of his head injury remains unclear as investigations are ongoing. Attempts by player Locatelli to calm the situation near the curva were unsuccessful, with chants demanding the match's suspension. Torino fans in the Maratona curva responded by dismantling their choreography and removing banners.
Earlier in the afternoon, around 5:30 PM, organized fan groups from both sides sought confrontation. Juventus ultras from groups like Tradizione and Drughi attempted to approach the area where Torino fans, including Ultras Granata 1969, were gathering. Police intervened, deploying tear gas to prevent direct contact, but brief scuffles still occurred.
Several individuals were detained by law enforcement, primarily Juventus ultras. Four police officers sustained injuries during the disturbances. The rivalry's animosity has a history, with previous clashes, including one in November 2024, cited as unresolved issues fueling the day's violence.
Originally published by ANSA in Italian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.