Udine Turned Red and Blue: PSG Fans Make History at the European Super Cup
Udine was transformed into a sea of red and blue long before the kickoff of the European Super Cup . On August 13, nearly 6,000 Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) supporters flocked to this northeastern Italian city, breaking the attendance record for fans in the competition’s history. Their vibrant presence brought the city to life, as fans adorned the streets with banners, jerseys, and songs . The atmosphere felt akin to an annex of the Parc des Princes, with Udine pulsating to the rhythm of Parisian pride even before the match commenced.
With a recent Champions League victory and a strong showing in the Club World Cup , PSG fans arrived with a singular objective: to witness their team secure its first European Super Cup title. Taking over local hot spots and fan zones, the atmosphere was electric. At Parco Moretti , a designated fan meeting point, the city became a hub of celebration, demonstrating the fans’ commitment to supporting their team.
“I admit that I did not know Udine at all before this match. The small squares, the terraces, the decorations in the colors of the Super Cup… it’s magnificent,” said Aurélien , a devoted supporter. “The organization is really fluid, between shuttles and fan zones, we are taken in hand from start to finish. We want to show the team that we are behind it for this season which can still be historic.” This sentiment echoed throughout the city, which had already been alive with celebrations for weeks leading up to the event.
The Festivities of Parco Moretti
To facilitate the exuberance of the fans and offer a gathering point, PSG set up a vibrant fan meeting point at Parco Moretti , which opened its doors at 11 AM for all ticket holders. This venue acted as a Parisian HQ , packed with activities designed to warm up supporters before the match began. Festivities included musical performances, DJ sets, and demonstrations by talented freestyle footballers. French international Jérémy Ménez , popular among fans, was on hand to share his experiences and engage with the crowd.
“Make this trip is a way to extend the party after the Champions League,” explained Karim . “We came in a group and have already met Tottenham supporters in the streets, and the atmosphere is really friendly. Udine might be small, but it’s so lively, and the fan meeting point is incredible for heating everyone up before the match.”
The programming at Parco Moretti was meticulously organized, with events stacked almost minute by minute. After the official opening, activities blended seamlessly from musical shows to sports performances, culminating in a communal march toward the stadium. The day’s events were not just to entertain but also to create a sense of unity and excitement , allowing supporters to meet, share chants, and feel the heartbeat of their beloved club.
Safety Measures and Community Spirit
However, accommodating such a large crowd necessitated a well-thought-out plan to avoid congestion and ensure a safe environment for fans. Local authorities in Udine coordinated with UEFA and law enforcement to implement safety measures, including free parking , dedicated shuttle services, and traffic restrictions leading to the stadium. Police Chief Pasquale Antonio de Lorenzo mobilized around 1,000 officers to secure a “very high-risk match,” deploying units equipped with sophisticated surveillance technologies.
As anticipation built before kickoff, the streets echoed with chants and songs, transforming Udine into a vibrant celebration of football culture . “We took over 12 hours to get here, but honestly, it was worth it,” said Lucas , another die-hard fan present since Monday. “The people here are welcoming, and we can feel that the entire city is immersed in this event. After winning the Champions League , being here to support our team in the new season feels monumental.”
Ultimately, this event wasn’t just about the game itself but was a celebration of community, passion, and devotion to PSG. The atmosphere of support provided by passionate fans effectively showcased how football can unite and transform a city, creating unforgettable memories that linger long after the final whistle. Fans may have arrived to see their team compete for a title, but they left with experiences that transcended mere sport—demonstrating that the love for football fosters a powerful sense of belonging and camaraderie, no matter where you are in the world.