Growing tension around the Rome Derby could leave both ultras groups outside the Stadio Olimpico if the match is moved to Monday night
The countdown to the latest edition of the Derby della Capitale has been overshadowed by confusion, protests, and mounting tension between clubs, supporters, and local authorities. With the official kickoff date for the clash between AS Roma and SS Lazio still not confirmed, Roma has now publicly sided with its fans amid the growing controversy.
At the center of the dispute is the possibility that the derby could be scheduled for Monday night instead of Sunday. Organized supporter groups from Roma’s Curva Sud have already announced they will boycott the match if the fixture is moved to Monday, arguing that the change would heavily impact season-ticket holders and longtime supporters who plan their schedules around the team.
Roma released an official statement expressing understanding and support for the frustration voiced by the fanbase while continuing to push — alongside Serie A league officials — for the match to remain on Sunday.
The club emphasized the sacrifices supporters make to follow the team and described attendance at the Stadio Olimpico as “an integral part of life” for many fans. Roma also confirmed it is actively working through every available institutional channel to protect the interests of supporters and season-ticket holders.
The statement stopped short of directly criticizing authorities but made clear that the club believes fan rights should be taken into serious consideration during the scheduling process. Roma also praised the loyalty and identity of its supporters, calling the fanbase “a unique symbol of belonging and passion.”
The scheduling dispute has created a broader standoff involving Serie A officials and the Rome Prefecture, with reports in Italy suggesting legal action could even be considered depending on the final decision.
There are also growing security concerns tied to the situation. If the derby is played on Monday and the Curva Sud follows through with its boycott, Roma would likely be missing its most vocal supporters inside the stadium. At the same time, SS Lazio could also see its Curva Nord largely absent due to separate protests against club president Claudio Lotito.
That combination has raised fears that tensions could shift outside the stadium rather than remain inside it, increasing the risk of clashes around the Olimpico before and after the match.
For now, fans across Rome continue waiting for the final decision, but what should be one of the biggest nights of the Italian football season has already turned into a political and organizational battle off the pitch.
