The Bad Blue Boys: Inside Dinamo Zagreb’s Ultras Group
Football ultras are known worldwide for their passionate support, vivid displays, and loyalty to their clubs. Among Europe’s many ultras groups, Dinamo Zagreb’s “Bad Blue Boys” (BBB) stand out distinctly. Originating from Croatia, a nation deeply intertwined with football culture, the BBB have become synonymous with support, dedication, and sometimes controversy.
Origins and History
The Bad Blue Boys were officially formed in 1986, drawing inspiration from a variety of ultras movements spreading throughout Europe at the time, particularly influenced by Italian ultras culture. Their name, “Bad Blue Boys,” is said to have originated from the 1983 American film “Bad Boys,” starring Sean Penn.
Initially, BBB emerged as a reaction against what many supporters saw as passive fandom, aiming instead to bring an active, intense, and visual form of support to Dinamo Zagreb’s matches. The group quickly expanded, gathering thousands of devoted supporters who shared loyalty and unity, symbolized by their iconic blue colors.
One defining moment in their history occurred on May 13, 1990, famously known as the “Dinamo–Red Star riot”. This incident at Maksimir Stadium was more than just a clash between fans; it became a symbolic event associated with the tensions preceding Croatia’s independence from Yugoslavia. Since then, the BBB have maintained a prominent role in both Dinamo Zagreb’s identity and Croatian football culture as a whole.
Rivalries
The BBB’s most significant rivalry is with Hajduk Split’s ultras group, Torcida. Which is considered one of the most intense rivalries in European football. Matches against Hajduk Split often see heightened emotions, dramatic visual displays, and sometimes controversial incidents. The rivalry extends beyond football, reflecting deeper regional, historical, and social tensions.
Another significant rivalry is with Red Star Belgrade’s Delije, prominently remembered through the Zagreb Riot of 1990, a symbolic representation of broader political tensions during the breakup of Yugoslavia.
Friendships
The Bad Blue Boys maintain notable friendships and alliances within the European ultras community. Their most recognized friendship is with Gate 13, the ultras group of Panathinaikos F.C. from Greece. This longstanding relationship has seen mutual support during European matches and frequent visits between the groups. Additionally, BBB have friendships with AS Roma’s Fedayn ultras, showcasing their interconnectedness and solidarity with various European ultras communities.
Controversies
BBB have been involved in several controversial incidents over the years. In 2006, Croatian police intervened at a barbecue party organized by BBB due to reports of a displayed swastika. The situation escalated, and two police officers who arrived faced a confrontational situation.
In 2018, Croatian police raided BBB’s quarters in Zagreb, seizing weapons including clubs and other items associated with violence. Such incidents have highlighted the complicated reputation of BBB, reflecting tensions between supporters and authorities.
A particularly severe incident occurred in August 2023 when BBB supporters traveled to Athens despite a UEFA ban on away supporters. A violent conflict ensued with local supporters of AEK Athens, resulting in the death of a 29-year-old AEK supporter, injuries to eight others, and the arrest of 104 individuals—94 Croats, six Greeks, one Albanian, one German, and one Austrian.
Influence & Social Impact
Despite controversies, BBB have demonstrated their influence beyond football. The group has participated in various community initiatives. For example, they have actively participated in humanitarian initiatives, including blood donation drives, fundraising for community projects, and providing assistance during natural disasters.
Also during international crises, the BBB have shown solidarity. In one notable instance, they were globally recognized for their displays of support for Ukraine, following the Russian invasion in 2022, receiving international praise for their visible stance.