KEY POINTS
- The Italian Interior Ministry banned Inter Milan supporters from traveling to away league matches until March 23 following a dangerous pyrotechnic incident.
- During a Serie A match, a flare thrown from the away stands struck Cremonese goalkeeper Emil Audero, causing a brief suspension of play.
- The perpetrator suffered severe self-inflicted hand injuries during the act, while the club also faces a €50,000 fine for the misconduct.
Inter Milan supporters face a significant travel restriction after a violent incident marred their recent victory at Cremonese. The Italian Interior Ministry announced on Tuesday that away fans are prohibited from attending road matches for nearly two months. This decision follows a dangerous episode where a flare launched from the visitor’s section hit home goalkeeper Emil Audero. The ban aims to prioritize public safety and discourage future stadium violence across the league.
The incident occurred early in the second half of Sunday’s match at the Stadio Giovanni Zini. Play was halted for several minutes after a pyrotechnic device exploded near Audero, leaving him in visible distress. Medical staff treated the goalkeeper for minor leg injuries and temporary hearing loss caused by the blast. Despite the shock, Audero managed to complete the game, which Inter eventually won 2-0 to extend their lead in Serie A.
The consequences for the individual responsible were immediate and severe. Reports indicate that the fan who threw the firework suffered significant trauma to his own hand when the device detonated prematurely. Police identified the 40-year-old suspect, who remains in a Cremona hospital in critical condition. Authorities expect to place the man under arrest once his medical status stabilizes.
Beyond the travel ban, the Italian Sports Judge imposed a €50,000 fine on Inter Milan for the behavior of their fanbase. The travel restriction specifically blocks the sale of tickets to residents of the Lombardy region for upcoming fixtures. Inter will be without their vocal traveling support for crucial matches against Sassuolo, Lecce, and Fiorentina. However, the ministry confirmed the upcoming Milan derby on March 8 is exempt from this specific travel order.
Players and officials from both clubs have condemned the “mindless” act. Inter captain Lautaro Martinez personally apologized to Audero and the Cremonese supporters following the final whistle. The club hierarchy expressed deep regret that a sporting milestone was overshadowed by a life-threatening action. This ruling sends a stern message to ultras across Italy that dangerous pyrotechnics will carry heavy collective penalties.
The ban is set to remain in effect until March 23, 2026. Security forces plan to increase surveillance and search protocols at all major stadiums in the coming weeks. This crackdown reflects a broader effort by the Italian government to eliminate thuggish behavior from the professional game. For Inter, the lack of away support comes at a critical time as they push for the league title.
