Police intervene to prevent violent clashes between Lazio and Roma fans

In Italy, chaos erupted during the Rome derby on April 13, when violence spilled over between rival fan groups of Lazio and Roma, specifically at the Stadio Olimpico. Approximately 2,000 police officers were deployed to manage the escalating tensions as Lazio's hardcore 'ultra' fans attempted to push past barricades, which led to conflict. The police, clad in riot gear, were met with fireworks and projectiles thrown by fans responding to their intervention. In total, 13 police officers sustained injuries during the clashes. To regain control, law enforcement had to employ tear gas in response to assaults on their lines by thousands of fans from both sides. The scene was further complicated by the presence of an estimated 500 Roma supporters, who also engaged in aggressive confrontation, resulting in damaged property including cars and a traffic signal. This violent encounter occurred despite extensive police preparation, which included morning raids where clubs and iron pipes were seized to prevent fan violence. The authorities faced criticism for failing to maintain order despite these measures. This marked the second consecutive Rome derby to be marred by violence since the fixtures have returned to evening schedules after being held during the day for five years due to safety concerns. The aftermath of these clashes has led to discussions about the safety of future matches, with authorities contemplating moving derby kick-offs back to daytime to reduce the risk of violent encounters in the evening. Italian media outlets have described the evening derby's atmosphere as resembling 'urban guerrilla warfare', highlighting the severe threat posed to public safety. As the rivalry between Lazio and Roma intensifies, the incidents underscore a persistent issue in Italian football regarding crowd control and fan violence, which authorities have struggled to mitigate. This latest derby serves as a significant example of the potential dangers involved in high-stakes sporting events in Italy and raises questions about the overall effectiveness of police protocols in managing large crowds of passionate football supporters. The Rome derby's historical context, rooted in deep-seated rivalries, adds layers of complexity to addressing these ongoing problems.