When it comes to football, Rome is home to some of the most passionate fans in Italy. The city boasts not just one, but two major football clubs that have a rich history and a devoted following. Let’s take a closer look at how many football clubs are in Rome and what makes them unique.
The Big Two
Rome is known for its fierce football rivalry between two prominent clubs: AS Roma and SS Lazio. These clubs have a long-standing history and share the Stadio Olimpico as their home ground.
AS Roma
AS Roma, commonly referred to as simply Roma, was founded in 1927. The club’s colors are maroon and orange, reflecting the city’s traditional colors. They have won numerous titles, including three Serie A championships and nine Coppa Italia trophies.
Roma has had several legendary players over the years, such as Francesco Totti, who spent his entire career at the club and became an icon for both the team and the city. The club has a passionate fan base known as “Romanisti,” who fill the stands with their chants and unwavering support.
SS Lazio
SS Lazio, commonly known as Lazio, was founded in 1900 and has a distinctive sky-blue color on their kits. Just like Roma, they have also enjoyed success on both domestic and international stages.
Lazio has won two Serie A championships and seven Coppa Italia trophies. They have had notable players like Alessandro Nesta, Pavel Nedvěd, Hernán Crespo, and more recently Ciro Immobile.
Rivalry: The Derby della Capitale
The clash between AS Roma and SS Lazio is known as the Derby della Capitale, or the Rome Derby. This rivalry is one of the most heated and passionate in Italian football, as it represents not just a battle on the pitch but also a clash between different factions of the city.
The atmosphere during the Rome Derby is electric, with fans from both clubs creating a vibrant and intense experience. The Stadio Olimpico becomes a cauldron of noise, with supporters chanting, waving flags, and displaying impressive tifos.
Other Clubs in Rome
While AS Roma and SS Lazio dominate the football scene in Rome, there are other smaller clubs that also contribute to the city’s football culture.
- A.S.D. Trastevere Calcio 1909: Founded in 1909, Trastevere Calcio competes in Serie D, the fourth tier of Italian football.
- S. Albalonga: Albalonga plays in Serie D and has a storied history dating back to 1977.
These clubs may not have the same level of fame or following as Roma or Lazio, but they play an important role in providing opportunities for local talent to develop their skills and contribute to the city’s football legacy.
The Eternal City’s Football Passion
Rome’s football culture runs deep through its veins. The city breathes football, with passionate fans supporting their beloved clubs through thick and thin. Whether you’re cheering for Roma or Lazio or even one of the smaller clubs, there’s no denying that football holds a special place in Rome’s heart.
So next time you find yourself in Rome, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the energy and excitement of a football match. Whether it’s the Derby della Capitale or a local club game, you’ll witness firsthand the passion that makes Rome such a unique football city.