SCORE VOCAL, SUPPORT LOCAL

The culture of active football fanaticism in Russia emerged in the 1980s against the backdrop of profound political and social changes in the country. Football, like many other areas of life, was one of the few arenas where young people could express their individuality, show loyalty to their club, and find like-minded peers. The first fan movements of that time laid the foundation for the rapid development of this subculture in the following decades. The late 1990s and early 2000s marked the golden age of football fanaticism in Russia. This period was characterized by a significant increase in the number of organized fan groups, the emergence of so-called "firms"—groups of fans united by a common ideology and ready to defend the honor of their club not only in the stands but also beyond. At that time, fanaticism was not just about supporting a football team; it was a way of life, encompassing rituals, symbols, and strict codes of conduct.
However, in the early 2010s, the fan culture in Russia began to undergo significant changes. One of the main turning points was the events at Manezhnaya Square in 2010, when riots following the death of "Spartak" fan Yegor Sviridov drew the attention of law enforcement agencies to the fan movement. These events made the authorities seriously consider controlling and regulating fan activity. Increased security measures at stadiums, heightened repression, and the persecution of fan group leaders led to a decline in the number of participants in the fan movement and a change in its character. Nevertheless, despite all these changes, the 2010s were also marked by a renewed surge of interest in football in Russia, largely due to the preparation and hosting of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. This event became not only a sporting spectacle but also a cultural phenomenon that united millions of people across the country. However, this surge may have been the last major expression of fan culture in modern Russia. After the World Cup ended, it became clear that the era of mass football fanaticism was gradually fading. The new conditions faced by fans demand greater caution, and defending their beliefs and allegiances is becoming increasingly difficult.
This essay is a small window into the world of Russian football fans, where dangers lurk not only from rivals in other groups but also from law enforcement agencies, which closely monitor any signs of dissent and defiance. It is an exploration of a unique and extreme subculture that, having passed through periods of both growth and decline, has left a lasting impact on the history of Russian football and society.