ULTRA. THE UNDERWORLD OF ITALIAN FOOTBALL

Embark on a journey into the heart of Italian football, where passion and controversy intertwine in a fascinating story. Discover the world of ultras, groups of fans who evoke both admiration and fear. Are they hooligans or the last defenders of values?

• Report straight from the heart of the Italian ultra movement
• Fascinating story about Italian society and its favorite sport
• Insightful look at a subculture full of contradictions
• Description of fans of the biggest Italian clubs
• Analysis of the sinister side of football fandom
• Admiration for the passion, wit and solidarity of the ultras

Italian ultras are one of the most organized and aggressive fan groups in Europe. Some of them have turned into organized criminal groups involved in drug trafficking, ticket sales and even murder. They are often linked to the mafia and play a key role in far-right political movements. Tobias Jones presents them as a cross between Hell's Angels members and hooligans.

However, the ultras themselves see themselves as rebels fighting against the police state and the commercialization of modern football. They argue that only in their ranks can a true sense of belonging, community and the idea of a clean sport be found. They see themselves as defenders not only of their clubs, but also of the forgotten suburbs and the people who have been excluded from them. Through the lens of ultras, Tobias Jones analyzes Italian society and its obsession with football.

The author writes about fans of both the most famous clubs, such as Juventus, Torino, Lazio, Roma or Genoa, and the less popular ones, from Cosenza and Catania. Penetrating into their structures, he examines the sinister side of football fandom, with its violence and political extremism, but also admires the passion, wit, solidarity and lifestyle of this fascinating and contradictory subculture. This report is not only a story about fans, but also about modern Italy, its problems and paradoxes. An ideal book for football fans, sociologists and anyone interested in contemporary culture.

The book, published by Sine Qua Non in 2024, has 236 pages and a format of 208x151 mm. The paperback cover ensures comfortable reading and durability. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the phenomenon of Italian football and its impact on society. Immerse yourself in the underworld of ultras and discover the truth about their passion and motivations.