Ahead of the upcoming Europa League match between VfB Stuttgart and Maccabi Tel Aviv on Thursday, a wave of protests among fans is intensifying. Key segments of the organized fan community have decided to boycott the match, rallying under the slogan, “This game takes place without us.”
The ultra groups, including Schwabensturm Stuttgart 2002, Schwaben Kompanie Stuttgart, and Crew 36 Stuttgart, have publicly stated their intent to abstain from attending the game. In an official announcement posted on their website, they criticized the stringent security measures imposed for the match, arguing that these requirements hinder essential aspects of fan and stadium culture, thus undermining their identity as ultras.
However, the ultra collective Commando Cannstatt (CC) has chosen to diverge from this collective boycott. Approximately 200 members of CC will be present at the stadium, although they will do so under certain limitations. They have resolved to maintain their presence to coordinate support for the team but, due to extensive security checks, will refrain from utilizing various visual displays typically associated with ultra culture, such as waving flags or double holders—permitting only the display of fence flags.
The new measures for the match, which involve rigorous entry checks with metal detectors, a prohibition on bags, and an early arrival requirement, have been viewed by the boycotting groups as detrimental to the fan experience. They argue that these protocols effectively obliterate their ability to engage in their traditional ways of supporting the team.
This situation highlights the ongoing tension between security concerns and the passionate expression of fan culture, as clubs grapple with the need to ensure safety while still fostering an engaging atmosphere for supporters.