Fans rebel after San Siro closure

By Football Italia staff

Inter ultras have shown solidarity with Milan after the closure of San Siro for ‘discriminatory’ anti-Naples chants and the FIGC admit the rules need “reflection.”

The rules introduced to stamp out racist abuse in Italian stadiums have been expanded to include “territorial discrimination.”

Rossoneri supporters had the Curva closed for anti-Neapolitan chants and the recurrence of these insults mean their game with Udinese will be played behind closed doors.

In an unprecedented step, Inter ultras have released a statement showing solidarity with their arch rivals and urging a rebellion all over the country.

“We are ready and we hope that all the Curve will make discriminatory chants so we can have one Sunday with total closure of the stadiums!

“It might be difficult to ensure the bans are simultaneous, but it’s easier to do than to explain!”

Milan have complained bitterly at the use of anti-racism laws to punish insults between Italian cities or regions.

“I understand that racism is a big problem, a worldwide one,” said Vice-President Adriano Galliani. “However, territorial discrimination is something different.

“The rule on that needs to be abolished. All of the Presidents are in agreement with that and I’ve already called Italian Football Federation chief Giancarlo Abete to tell him that.”

FIGC President Abete agreed the rules are open to interpretation.

“I think it would be helpful if there were a period of reflection on the way to apply these rules. We are moving within the international rules, though there are contrasting approaches to different discriminatory situations.

“I want to point out the rules on territorial discrimination in the Italian code have been there for a long time. The only thing that has changed is the degree of punishment.”

Watch Serie A live in the UK on Premier Sports for just £9.99 per month including live LaLiga, Eredivisie, Scottish Cup Football and more. Visit: https://www.premiersports.com/subscribenow