From the supporters' bar
Stand Talk Explained
Questions from the stands
Whether it is your first match or your five-hundredth, these are the questions we hear most. Tap a row to open it.
Who starts football chants?
Usually a capo or a group of regulars in the loudest section. A chant spreads if it is simple, rhythmic and easy to join. See Chants.
Are ultras the same as hooligans?
No. Ultras organise around support, choreography and the identity of the stand. Violence is a separate problem that most supporters reject.
What is a tifo?
A choreographed display of banners, flags or coloured cards made by supporters, usually revealed as the teams come out. See Tifo.
Can I bring a flag or banner to the stadium?
Many clubs allow flags within size and fire-safety limits, but rules vary. Check the club's ground regulations before matchday.
Are flares allowed at football matches?
In the United Kingdom it is illegal to bring pyrotechnics into a ground, and many other countries ban or restrict them. They can cause serious burns. Leave them at home.
What is a supporters' trust?
A democratic, member-owned organisation of fans that seeks influence or ownership at its club. See Fanzines.
What is the 50+1 rule?
A German football rule meaning a club's members must hold the majority of voting rights, with limited exceptions.
Is it safe to wear colours as an away fan?
Usually yes in the away section. Follow steward and club guidance, and be sensible in neutral or home areas.
Glossary
Words you will hear on the terrace
A short dictionary of the stands, from Liverpool to Buenos Aires.
- Kop
- A steep home terrace, named after Spion Kop, a hill fought over in the Boer War. Anfield's is the most famous.
- Curva
- The curved end behind the goal in Italian stadiums, home of the ultras.
- Ultras
- Organised supporter groups devoted to atmosphere, banners and choreography.
- Capo
- The leader who conducts the singing, often facing the crowd with a megaphone.
- Tifo
- A choreographed display; from the Italian word for fever.
- La Doce
- “The twelfth”, the name of Boca Juniors' organised support.
- The Poznań
- Backs to the pitch, arms linked, bouncing; named after Lech Poznań.
- Away end
- The section reserved for visiting supporters.
- Fanzine
- An independent publication written and sold by fans.
- Safe standing
- Rail seating that allows supporters to stand safely.
- Groundhopper
- A fan who collects visits to as many grounds as possible.
- 50+1
- Germany's member-majority ownership rule.