Le Mouvement ULTRAS au Maroc : De la Passion Sportive à l'Expression Politique

Abstract

This article, titled "The ULTRAS Movement in Morocco: From Sports Passion to Political Expression," attempts to study the role of the Ultras movement in Moroccan political life. Comparative experiences show that these groups were initially known for their unconditional support of their sports teams, attending matches, and using various means to encourage their teams. However, the activity of these groups has gradually evolved from simple sports support to contributing to the expression of various social and political issues. This article aims to study how the Ultras movement uses stadiums as spaces for political expression. Through chants, tifos, slogans, and messages, these groups express their opinions on topics such as social justice, unemployment, repression of freedoms, wealth, and corruption. This study highlights several cases where the Ultras movement has played a key role in mobilizing young people and raising awareness of political issues, making stadium stands a space for youth expression, as an alternative to traditional political entities (political parties). It also analyzes how Moroccan authorities have responded to this phenomenon. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the growing importance of the Ultras movement as a means of political expression in Morocco and raises questions about the future of these groups in a context where spaces for protest are limited