In France, ultra culture has been deeply rooted in the football landscape since the 1980s. Inspired by Italian and South American models, French ultra groups combine passion, creativity, and militant engagement. Their presence in the stands goes beyond simply supporting their club it becomes a true expression of identity and culture. Among the most emblematic groups, the Green Angels of AS Saint-Étienne, founded in 1992, hold a central place.
Based in the legendary Kop Sud of the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium, the Green Angels are known for their spectacular tifos, their strong connection to the club’s working class history, and their often critical stance toward football’s governing bodies. Their support is not limited to matchdays; it’s a total commitment, where solidarity, brotherhood, and loyalty are essential values.
One striking aspect of this group is their strong bond with the ultras of Aris Thessaloniki in Greece. This friendship, forged over the years through shared encounters and common values, is one of the strongest in the European ultra scene. It is based on a similar vision of the ultra movement, on anti-racist, anti-fascist, and grassroots ideals, as well as a shared defiance of modern, commercialized football. The Green Angels regularly travel to Greece to support Aris, while Greek ultras often visit Saint-Étienne, especially for major matches. This alliance is also expressed in the stands through joint banners, mutual messages of support, and a shared visual identity.
More recently, the Green Angels and other French ultra groups have voiced strong opposition to a proposed law put forward by Bruno Retailleau, aiming to drastically restrict supporters’ freedoms and criminalize the ultra movement. This law, seen as an outright attempt to eradicate ultras, is denounced as a threat to civil liberties and the popular culture of football. In Saint-Étienne, as in other cities, banners have appeared opposing the measure, asserting that the stands will remain places of free, passionate, and committed expression.
“The Retailleau law targets our flares, but it’s our convictions it seeks to extinguish.”
“The stand is our voice. A law won’t silence it.”
“You don’t criminalize a culture. You respect it.”
Despite recurring tensions with authorities and increasing pressure, the Green Angels continue to play a vital role in the life of the Saint-Étienne club. Their passion strengthened by international connections and militant engagement illustrates the vitality and depth of the ultra movement in France.
