Break-ins in Russian football have been going on for many years. Brawls in the stands and organized clashes between fans outside the stadium in this country are well known. However, the events at the Marseille stadium this weekend raised Russian football hooligans to an international level.
The Russian Football Union has already apologized for the unpleasant events in the football community. Nevertheless, there were those in football authority who praised the aggressive fans and even called them real men.
Meanwhile, Russian fans show no remorse and even boast about what they did.
"The fights showed what is most important among football hooligans," said one of the Moscow CSKA football fans.
Also, a person supporting the CSKA team emphasized that the organized support for teams in Russia was inspired by the ultras from England.
"In the 70s or 80s, everyone would have knelt before the English. But times have changed. Football hooligans are completely different now," he said.
However, the English are not inclined to back down. They called the Russians wild and claim that the attackers were just ordinary people, not English football hooligans.
For their part, Russian ultras argue that the disturbances were provoked by English troublemakers. They also emphasize that a new generation of football hooligans has grown up in Russia - younger, more adaptable, and more sober than those supporting England.
"Nowadays many people like to practice boxing or other combat sports. Russian ultras promote a healthy lifestyle and avoid alcohol," said Andrei Malosolov, one of the founders of the Russian fan community.
"The English like to drink a lot. When they drink a lot, they lose the necessary qualities of a good fighter. Our football fans were better prepared because of the different culture they promote.
If we look at the overall level, the Russians and Poles now occupy the highest place among football hooligans," said A. Molosovas.
It is reported that fans of smaller city football teams participated in the fights. For some larger cities and their teams, such as Moscow CSKA or "Spartak," ultras were not even allowed to travel to France.
Usually hooligans face penalties when their identities are recognized, but many Russian fans did not even bother to cover their faces while fighting. They were not worried at all about being recognized and facing appropriate sanctions.
However, the possible sanctions for the supported team prompted the football hooligans to worry.
"Of course, we are worried about the team, that is the most important thing. But if someone dares to insult us, they must pay for it," said one fan, emphasizing that there should be no more problems if no one provokes them.
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