Milan Ultras Jailed in Mafia-Linked Trial

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Fans tied to AC Milan and Inter sentenced over crimes involving 'Ndrangheta influence

Sixteen hardcore football fans from AC Milan and Inter have been sentenced to prison by an Italian judge, following a fast-track trial exposing mafia infiltration in the city’s ultra scene.

The supporters—convicted of crimes ranging from murder and extortion to criminal association—received sentences of two to ten years. The verdict marks a significant moment in Italy’s long-running battle against the criminal undercurrents in fan culture.

Prosecutors allege the ultra groups operated as “private militias,” working with the powerful ‘Ndrangheta mafia and far-right groups to control illicit schemes around San Siro stadium, including ticket scams and protection rackets.

Andrea Beretta, former leader of Inter's ultras, was sentenced to 10 years for the murder of Antonio Bellocco, a mafia figure and fellow fan. Beretta later turned state witness, earning a lighter sentence. AC Milan’s ultra chief Luca Lucci, also under separate investigation for drug trafficking, was handed 10 years plus four years’ probation for attempted murder and mafia association.

Around 200 AC Milan fans rallied outside the Milan courtroom as the verdicts were delivered.

Each convicted fan was ordered to pay €50,000 in damages to their club, plus €20,000 to Serie A. Civil proceedings may follow for further compensation.

A second verdict involving three additional AC Milan ultras is expected on June 19.

Investigators say the Milan case is part of a broader trend, with criminal groups increasingly infiltrating ultra factions across Italy and beyond—echoing recent findings in Greece.