May 16, 2025

Nazi Salutes at Czech Cup Final: Sparta Prague Fans Under Fire

Prague Morning

What was meant to be a celebration of football turned into a scandal on Wednesday night, as Sparta Prague supporters were filmed giving Nazi salutes and shouting racist slogans during the Czech Cup final against Sigma Olomouc.

Footage quickly spread online, showing fans in the away section of Olomouc’s Andrův Stadium raising their right arms in what appeared to be fascist salutes. Other videos, filmed later in the city center, show 11 masked fans posing for photos, with three of them again raising their arms in the same manner.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for tougher responses to recurring extremism among certain groups of football fans.

Sparta Prague swiftly issued a public statement distancing the club from the behavior.

“AC Sparta Praha strongly distances itself from all forms of racism, extremism, and hatred. Such behavior is completely incompatible with the values we stand for,” the club wrote on its official social media channels.

According to the statement, the club has already launched a process to identify the individuals involved, using CCTV footage and working closely with local law enforcement. Sparta said those found responsible could face lifetime bans from all matches and criminal prosecution.

 


This is not the first time Sparta fans have drawn criticism for unacceptable behavior. In recent years, supporters have been accused of racist chanting against opposing players, as well as repeated verbal abuse towards referees. However, Wednesday’s display appears to go beyond past incidents.

“This is beyond outrageous. Being a fan doesn’t give you a license to promote hate,” one online comment read under a widely shared video clip.

Authorities Step In

The Czech Football Association has confirmed it will launch its own investigation. The disciplinary committee could issue fines against Sparta or order partial stadium closures for upcoming matches.

Police have also opened a case, citing possible violations of laws prohibiting the promotion of extremist ideologies.

Final decisions on penalties are expected in the coming days.

 

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