Ultras in the City. A Sociological Inquiry into Urban Violence in Morocco Cover Image

Ultras in the City. A Sociological Inquiry into Urban Violence in Morocco
Ultras in the City. A Sociological Inquiry into Urban Violence in Morocco

Author(s): Abderrahim Bourkia
Subject(s): Studies in violence and power, Sports Studies
Published by: Trivent Publishing
Keywords: Interactionism; Football; Morocco; Sociology; Violence;

Summary/Abstract: Football fandom in Morocco leads to collective actions performed by fan-groups or ultra-groups. Admittedly, this particular type of collective expression reflects young Moroccans’commitment to the values and events of their football team. However, ultra-groups tend to act out with violence, and their actions often cause collateral damage. I first aim to show how ultra-groups help to forge a sense of personal and collective identity in young Moroccans. Then, I refer to the theoretical framework of interactionism in order to explain the reciprocal actions and rivalries between ultra-fans of the Raja Club Athletic (the “Green Boys”) and of the Wydad Athletic Club(the “Winners”). Eventually, I highlight that the collective actions of fan-groups also reflect young Moroccans’ concerns regarding social and political issues in their country.

  • Issue Year: 2/2018
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 321-333
  • Page Count: 13
  • Language: English