May 25, 2013
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Description
Ultras are a type of sports fans renowned for their fanatical support and elaborate displays. They are predominantly European followers of association football teams, although they also play a big role in some non-European countries, like Libya & Algeria. The behavioral tendency of ultras groups includes the use of flares, vocal support in large groups and the displaying of banners at football stadiums, all of which are designed to create an atmosphere which encourages their own team and intimidates opposing players and supporters. The actions of ultras groups can occasionally be overly extreme and are sometimes influenced by political ideologies or views on racism, in some instances to the point where the original ideology of the ultras phenomenon, passionate and loyal support of one's team, becomes secondary. In recent decades, the culture has become a focal point for the movement against the commercialization of sports and football in particular.
In 2013, the Associated Press stated that the Ultras network was one of the most organized movements in Egypt after the Muslim Brotherhood.
(via Freebase)
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