Herri Norte Group’s Trip Prompts ‘High Risk’ Label for Oviedo-Athletic Match
The upcoming match between Real Oviedo and Athletic has been designated as a “high risk” event. This classification follows the detection of approximately 15 members of the radical group Herri Norte planning to travel to Oviedo. According to reports, Herri Norte has been listed as a violent fan group since 2018 by the Anti-Violence Commission, which prohibits them from entering stadiums with identified banners or symbols.
Security Concerns Prior to the Match
The police have raised alarms regarding ticket purchases made online by Herri Norte members for the home section. Consequently, there is an extensive police presence around the Carlos Tartiere Stadium ahead of the match. This included tight security measures in areas where the home supporters, known as Symmachiarii, typically gather.
Fan Attendance and Ticket Sales
- Approximately 1,000 Athletic fans are expected to attend the match.
- 575 tickets were officially sold to Athletic supporters by Real Oviedo.
- Additional fans acquired tickets via the Asturian club’s website.
The “high risk” designation is enforced by the State Commission Against Violence in Sport. This mandates a special protocol that requires rigorous control over ticket sales, increased security at entry points, and enhanced police presence during the event.
Recent Incidents and Historical Context
The last notable incident involving Athletic occurred during a Copa match on January 13 in León. There were concerns about a potential movement of Herri Norte members, but they ultimately did not travel. No names from the group appeared in the ticket sales records for that game.
Security will be heightened due to the potential for altercations between the local ultra group and those traveling from Athletic. The local radicals are associated with far-right ideologies, while the visiting group advocates for far-left independence.
Previous Encounters
During the previous encounter between Athletic and Oviedo in November at San Mamés, law enforcement intercepted a bus carrying around 40 Oviedo ultras. The group was detained for three hours before being escorted to the stadium.
Established in 1994, Symmachiarii is known for its apolitical stance and critical view towards Sporting supporters. Their motto, “Los del 94,” is a significant emblem of their identity, displayed prominently in the Fondo Norte section of the Tartiere Stadium.
