Which Rome Part Supports Lazio?
Rome, the eternal city, is home to two of Italy’s most prominent football clubs – Roma and Lazio. These two teams have a long-standing rivalry that spans decades.
However, when it comes to identifying the part of Rome that primarily supports Lazio, there’s no definitive answer. Let’s explore the various factors that contribute to this question.
Geography
One factor that influences which part of Rome supports Lazio is geography. The Stadio Olimpico, where both Roma and Lazio play their home matches, is located in the Foro Italico sports complex on the west side of the Tiber River.
As a result, neighborhoods on the west side of Rome, such as Prati and Trionfale, tend to have a higher concentration of Lazio supporters.
Historical Factors
The historical background of each club plays a crucial role in determining their fan base. Roma was founded in 1927 and has traditionally attracted support from working-class neighborhoods in the south-eastern parts of Rome, such as Testaccio and Garbatella.
On the other hand, Lazio was founded earlier in 1900 and historically drew support from areas like San Lorenzo and Pigneto.
Military Connections
Another fascinating aspect that impacts which part of Rome supports Lazio is military connections. Historically, Lazio has had strong ties with Italian military institutions like the Air Force Academy in Vigna di Valle.
This connection has led to a significant number of supporters coming from areas near military bases or families with military backgrounds.
Rivalry Dynamics
The intense rivalry between Roma and Lazio has also shaped the distribution of their fan bases within the city. It is not uncommon to find mixed neighborhoods where supporters of both clubs live side by side.
In some cases, families can even be divided, with members supporting different teams. The rivalry between these two clubs adds a unique dynamic to the football culture in Rome.
The Influence of Success
Success on the pitch can also impact the support for a football club. Roma has enjoyed more consistent success than Lazio in recent years, with several Serie A titles and European competition appearances.
This success has attracted fans from all over Rome who appreciate winning teams. However, Lazio’s occasional triumphs, such as their Serie A title win in 2000, have also helped them gain support from various parts of the city.
In Conclusion
While it is challenging to pinpoint a specific part of Rome that predominantly supports Lazio, factors such as geography, historical background, military connections, rivalry dynamics, and on-pitch success all contribute to the distribution of their fan base within the city. Ultimately, football allegiance is a deeply personal choice that can transcend geographic boundaries and familial ties.