Serie A – Half the crowds but double the atmosphere at less than half the price

Date: 7th February 2012 at 9:05am
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Recently, English Premier League side Aston Villa proposed the idea of re-introducing a standing section at one end of Villa Park.

The idea was greeted with contrasting arguments, for and against it. Many fans in England are vehemently against standing areas in terraces, in fear of another Hillsborough disaster. In most other European countries however, standing on terracing is part and parcel of watching games, in fact it undoubtedly helps contribute to much of the colourful atmosphere.

The ‘no standing’ rules at football ground across England is just one of the health and safety imposed regulations. No flags, no flairs, no alcohol, no banners and perhaps soon – no singing! Of course, these rulings are there for supporters’ health and social well-being, but how much does this kill the atmosphere around the grounds?

In Serie A, things could not be more different.  Every ‘curva’ across Italy is often draped with flags and banners showing support for their team.  Amongst these flags and banners are thousands of fans, nearly all standing, singing in unison and creating a breath taking atmosphere and incredible noise.

Flares are not permitted at stadia in Italy, nevertheless this has not hampered their useage and despite the supposed restriction, it is a beautiful site for many football fans and they very rarely lead to harm, the reason behind the ‘ban’ . It is difficult to imagine an Italian football match without flares, creating their magically smoky scenes.

Despite these stadiums brimming with atmosphere, many of the grounds are only just over half full. Possible reasons for this are numerous. Many grounds were upgraded for the 1990 World Cup and it is possible that they are just too large for the fanbase at each club.  Alternatively, every Sunday afternoon SKY Calcio beams each game live into millions of homes and bars across Italy.

The problem certainly cannot be attributed to ticket pricing or availability, as local residents can get tickets to their club’s home games from ATMs, bars, online or the club shop. Fans unfamiliar with italian football ticket pricing would be astounded at the relatively low cost of entry to top Serie A games with Inter, AC Milan and Roma charging as little as €18.

As a comparison, for those that might be inclined to pay €90 or more to see games involving the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea or Tottenham here is something to think about:

– flights, London Stansted to Milan Bergamo from as little as €55 return

– train to Milan €7.50 or €15 and a ticket for an Atalanta match

– if you prefer Inter or AC Milan, ticket €23

An average of around €80, but, take advantage of the league schedule and watch two or three games.  Even with the cost of a hotel, it should only amount to a maximum of €240.

The chance to experience a real footballing atmosphere with great fans, in a beautiful country while watching the greatest game  on earth and for such affordable prices is surely every supporters dream.

For all the latest Serie A news don’t forget to check out the news section of Forza Italian Football.

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We are always looking for new writers, so if you think you know Calcio, email us: forzaitalianfootball@snack-media.com

 

One response to “Serie A – Half the crowds but double the atmosphere at less than half the price”

  1. Nick Zdan says:

    Great article, i just hope we get more fans at the games…