From changes in banners to ticket sales, the presence of the Curva Nord at Inter Milan matches will be different after being rocked by scandal.
This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews.
Over the last week, a major scandal has erupted around Inter ultras group the Curva Nord and their AC Milan counterparts the Curva Sud.
Anti-mafia prosecutors have arrested nineteen high-ranking members of the two ultras groups.
The arrests concern allegations of illegal activities and mafia ties among the ultras.
Prosecutors specifically allege illegal ticket sales practices. Furthermore, there are other alleged illegal practices by the ultras such as re-selling drinks for profit during matches.
Naturally, the question has been what the fallout of this scandal will be.
For Inter and Milan, there will be no sporting punishment according to reports.
The clubs could however, face fines.
And more importantly, the authorities will demand that the clubs make changes to ensure they do not facilitate illegal activities in the future through inaction or allowing ultras groups to intimidate them.
But then, there is also the question of how this scandal will affect the presence of ultras at matches.
Banners & Ticket Sales Key Changes For Curva Nord At Inter Matches
The Curva Nord are certainly a recognizable presence at Inter matches, both home and away.
Similarly, the Curva Sud are ubiquitous at Milan matches.
The Nord typically lead chants during Nerazzurri matches. And they also fly recognizable banners, as well as organizing elaborate tifos and displays for certain matches.
According to the Gazzetta, however, for the time being at least, the Nord will only fly one banner. This will contain the slogan: “Since 1969. Proud, united, never tamed.”
But the banners of ultras subgroups such as Boys, Brigade, and Viking will be gone. At least for the time being.
Then, there is the matter of ticket sales.
Allegations of illegal ticket-selling practices are at the heart of allegations against the Nord.
Reportedly, the Nord have negotiated with Inter for mass purchases of tickets in the past.
But this will be no more. According to the Gazzetta, in response to this latest scandal, from now on ultras in the Curva Nord stand will have to purchase tickets individually, and transparently.