The Milan Prosecutor’s Office has opened a preliminary investigation into Inter and AC Milan’s relationships with their ultras groups following a series of arrests for illicit practices ranging from extortion to links with the ‘Ndrangheta crime syndicate. This sensitive inquiry is focusing on the connections between prominent fan group leaders and the two clubs.
ANSA (Via Calciomercato) detail how the authorities are seeking to determine if the clubs have taken concrete steps to distance themselves from criminal practices and defend against pressure from ultras leaders. Inter and Milan will need to demonstrate in a hearing that they have severed ties with certain elements and worked to prevent favoritism in ticket sales.
While the clubs are not currently under investigation, failure to prove their innocence could lead to judicial administration by the Prevention Measures Section of the Court. The prosecutor’s order mentions “facilitating contacts” and various incidents, including the provision of 1,500 tickets to the Curva Nord after heavy pressure for the Champions League final, and additional season tickets given when the “Irriducibili” group was expelled.
The investigation also highlights continuous relations with “We Are Milano,” allegedly a front for Andrea Beretta’s hidden management, and the ongoing issue of ticketless individuals entering the stadium through intimidation of stewards.
Of particular interest are the reported meetings between Marco Ferdico, a key Curva Nord figure now in custody, with former Inter player Milan Skriniar and coach Simone Inzaghi. This inquiry stems from the September 4 killing of Antonio Bellocco, a top Inter fan linked to a Calabrian mafia family, by ultras leader Andrea Beretta, who has since been transferred to San Vittore prison for security reasons.
