Sevilla Police Prevent Ultras Clashes Ahead of Andalusian Derby

G. E (Elbotola)

01 March 2026at15:15

Spanish authorities have announced that national police in Seville successfully prevented two imminent violent clashes between ultras groups affiliated with Sevilla FC and Real Betis. The incidents occurred on Friday and Saturday nights, ahead of Sunday's highly anticipated derby match. These proactive security interventions led to the identification of 78 individuals, the arrest of one person, and the seizure of various weapons.

According to field reports, the first attempted confrontation involved approximately 50 members of Sevilla's Biris Norte ultras group, who were observed by police dressed in black and wearing masks to conceal their identities. In a related incident, security forces thwarted a second attempt early Saturday morning involving 68 members of Real Betis' Supporters group. These individuals were reportedly supported by ultras members from Atlético Madrid and Recreativo Huelva.

Intensive search operations resulted in the inspection of 25 vehicles, leading to three reports for weapon possession and one for drug possession. Tools intended for use in the presumed altercations were also confiscated. Amidst these tensions, authorities classified the Sevilla derby, to be held at La Cartuja stadium, as a high-risk event, necessitating heightened security measures to ensure the safety of fans and facilities.

As part of a comprehensive security plan, Spanish authorities have deployed a security force of 400 national police officers to manage operations. This deployment aims to control any potential excesses from radical factions and provide a safe environment for the upcoming match, particularly given the observed alliances between ultras groups from different cities participating in these disturbances.

Q&A

What actions did Sevilla police take to prevent violence before the Andalusian Derby?

Sevilla police successfully intervened to prevent two violent clashes between ultras groups from Sevilla FC and Real Betis. These proactive operations led to the identification of many individuals and the seizure of various weapons, ensuring safety ahead of the highly anticipated match.

How did the ultras groups attempt to organize confrontations in Seville?

Ultras groups attempted to organize confrontations on Friday and Saturday nights. Sevilla's Biris Norte members were observed in masks, while Real Betis supporters were reportedly backed by allied ultras from other cities, indicating a coordinated effort to cause disturbances.

What security measures are in place for the high-risk Sevilla derby match?

For the high-risk Sevilla derby, authorities have deployed a significant security force of national police officers. This comprehensive plan aims to manage potential excesses from radical factions and ensure a safe environment for fans and facilities, especially given the observed inter-city alliances.