Ajax's F-side celebrates 50th anniversary with massive fireworks, flares and smoke bombs
Ajax supporters group F-side celebrated its 50th anniversary with large-scale fireworks displays at three locations across Amsterdam. The group, known for its long and controversial history in Dutch football, marked the occasion by gathering where the organization originally began.
The F-side, a prominent and notorious core group of Ajax supporters, celebrated its 50th anniversary with widespread fireworks, flares, and smoke bombs across Amsterdam. Supporters gathered at three primary locations including the Johan Cruijff Arena, the Olympic Stadium, and the Middenweg, where the group was originally formed near the former De Meer stadium. The anniversary event drew attention from local residents as fans in black shirts displayed flags and set off pyrotechnics throughout the evening to mark the milestone.
Founded in 1976 during the era of De Meer stadium, the F-side was modeled after English hooligan culture and eventually gained international infamy. The group has been involved in several major controversies over the decades, including the 1989 stadium rod incident, the fatal 1997 clash with Feyenoord supporters in Beverwijk known as the Battle of Beverwijk, and a recent stadium disruption during a match against FC Groningen. Despite its turbulent history, the group remains a significant part of the Ajax fan culture.
Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
