Delije: The Fearless Ultras of Red Star Belgrade

Delije (Serbian: Делије) is one of the most famous and feared ultras groups in world football, passionately supporting Red Star Belgrade (Crvena Zvezda). Known for their pyro shows, intense rivalries, and deep political ties, Delije represents much more than just a football fanbase. They are a symbol of Serbian nationalism.

History

Before Delije officially formed in 1989, Red Star’s support was divided into smaller groups such as Red Devils, Ultras, Zulu Warriors, and Winners. These groups merged to create a unified, stronger identity under the name Delije, which means “Heroes” or “Brave Ones” in Serbian.

Their rise to international recognition came during Red Star’s golden era, particularly when the club won the 1990-91 European Cup, defeating Marseille in the final. Delije followed their team across Europe, creating an unforgettable atmosphere in every stadium they visited.

Political Influence & Ideology

Delije is not just a football ultras group; it is deeply tied to Serbian nationalism, history, and politics.

During the Yugoslav Wars (1991-1995), many Delije members joined paramilitary units, including the “Tigers,” led by former Delije leader Željko “Arkan” Ražnatović.
Delije often displays Serbian Orthodox symbols, nationalist banners, and anti-Western messages.
The group is strongly anti-globalist and anti-modern football, opposing the commercialization of the game.

Friendships: The Orthodox Brotherhood

One of the most unique aspects of Delije is their strong friendships with other ultra groups, built on Orthodox Christian faith, nationalism, and anti-Western sentiment

Gate 7 (Olympiakos, Greece)

One of the strongest ultra alliances in the world.
Red Star and Olympiakos fans regularly visit each other’s matches.
Displays of Serbian and Greek flags are common.
Joint anti-Turkish banners due to historical conflicts.

Fratria (Spartak Moscow, Russia

Based on Serbian-Russian historical ties and Orthodox Christianity.
Spartak fans often wave Serbian flags in support of Delije.
Both groups share strong anti-Western political views

Biggest Rivalries

Partizan Belgrade (Grobari) – The Eternal Derby

The “Eternal Derby” between Red Star and Partizan is one of the most violent rivalries in world football.

Delije (Red Star) vs. Grobari (Partizan) has led to street riots, stadium fights, and even deaths.
The clubs have deep political differences: Red Star is seen as the people’s club, while Partizan was historically linked to the military.
Matches are known for insane pyro, tifo displays, and intense fighting.

Dinamo Zagreb (Bad Blue Boys)

The rivalry goes back to the Yugoslav War in the 1990s.
The Maksimir Riot (1990), where Delije fought Dinamo Zagreb’s Bad Blue Boys, is considered the first battle of the Croatian War of Independence.
Matches are extremely political, often banned for security reasons