I’m joined by Claus Bermann, whose company Rome Derby organises match tickets and tours for groundhoppers visiting the Italian capital to watch AS Roma and SS Lazio matches, or meetings between the two – the ‘Derby della Capitale’ (the Derby of the Capital).
In this episode, we cover:
Club popularity: Post-pandemic, Roma matches have consistently sold out, while Lazio games have also seen increased attendance.
Club history: Lazio, founded in 1900, is the oldest football club in Rome, initially encompassing multiple sports, including cycling, with Roma established later by merging smaller clubs under the Mussolini regime in 1927 to create a strong Roman club.
Key encounters: The Rome Derby, starting in 1929, has a storied history with memorable encounters, such as the 2004 “Derby of the Dead Boy” and the 2013 Coppa Italia final where Lazio triumphed.
Club successes: Both Roma and Lazio have won a comparable number of titles and cups over the years, emphasising the intense rivalry rather than dominance by one club.
Political identities: The political identities of the fan bases include elements of far-right associations, particularly with Lazio, though these political elements are not as visible inside the stadiums today. Italy’s current right-leaning government hasn’t noticeably changed the political atmosphere in stadiums, as clubs and organisations strive to eliminate political and racist expressions.
About the Rome Derby company: Rome Derby organises comprehensive tours for Roma and Lazio, providing match tickets, accommodations, and insights into the city’s football culture, aiming to offer an exclusive experience.
Finding murals: Rome features numerous football murals, especially in the Monti and Trastevere neighborhoods, celebrating icons like Totti and Mourinho.
Future stadium plans: Although there are plans for new stadiums for both clubs, we believe the current shared Stadio Olimpico provides a unique atmosphere critical to the Rome Derby’s intense experience.
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