Violence in Football (Soccer): Overview, Prevalence, and Risk Factors

Abstract

Abstract Football (soccer) has been associated with several forms of violence. Various instances have been recorded implicating players, but such forms of disorder have been more prevalent involving supporters, particularly against fellow fans and the police. “Football hooliganism” has often been employed as a label for violent fan disorder. The phenomenon is sometimes referred to as the “English disease” although it has proved a serious social problem across various countries. Violent football groups or “firms” have developed particular labels and practices, and hooliganism has resulted in injuries and fatalities as well as damage to property. There have been extensive football‐specific legislative and police responses, particularly following tragedies and high‐profile incidents of violence at football megaevents. This chapter examines the nature and development of football violence in modern professional football across various countries, exploring multiple definitional, legal, and theoretical positions and the prevalence, risk, and impact of football hooliganism.