Ultras: the documentary series that uncovers violence in Spanish football

HBO Max premieres on June 19 the docuseries Ultras. Passion and Death, a journey through violence in Spanish football from the 1980s to 2014. With testimonies from victims, police officers, and experts, the series aims to show how fanaticism in stadiums has shaped security at sporting events. The conclusion is clear: the ultra problem remains unresolved.

Empty football stadium at sunset, stands with broken seats and graffiti from ultra groups, a giant screen showing grainy images of clashes between fans in the 80s, two police officers with riot shields advancing among lit flares and orange smoke, during an emergency evacuation process, a broken security camera hanging from a cable over the stand, dark cinematic style, dramatic lighting with stadium floodlights, dirty and metallic textures, photorealistic technical render, atmosphere of tension and unresolved conflict.

Cameras, AI, and surveillance: the arsenal against ultras 🛡️

Spanish stadiums have implemented facial recognition systems and drones to identify violent individuals. The technology allows tracking movements in real-time and cross-referencing data with police databases. However, ultra groups adapt: they use encrypted applications to coordinate actions and evade controls. The technical battle is constant, but the root of the problem is not the lack of gadgets, but the impunity and permissiveness of some clubs.

From the stands to the sofa: how to watch violence without staining your jersey 🍿

Now you can watch Ultras. Passion and Death from home, with popcorn and no risk of being hit by a bottle. Meanwhile, the real protagonists of the documentary continue training for the next brawl. HBO Max offers you the thrill of violence without having to set foot in a stadium. Of course, if you get excited and break the sofa, insurance does not cover damages from domestic fanaticism.