The football world has voiced strong condemnation following a disturbing flare-throwing incident by Inter Milan fans that resulted in injury to goalkeeper Emil Audero. This regrettable event unfolded during a Serie A Week 23 match between Cremonese and Inter Milan in the 2025/26 season, held at the Stadio Giovanni Zini on an early Monday morning, February 2nd.
The unsettling incident directly impacting Emil Audero occurred in the 49th minute of play. Supporters positioned behind his goal launched flares into Cremonese’s penalty area, with one striking Audero. The goalkeeper was immediately affected and required urgent medical treatment on the field due to the impact of the pyrotechnic projectile, bringing the game to a temporary halt.
Investigations confirmed that the flares originated from the away supporters’ tribune, occupied by Inter Milan fans. The situation escalated to such an extent that several Inter players had to approach the tribune themselves, urging their own fans to cease the disruptive and dangerous behavior. This direct intervention by players underscored the severity of the unrest.
Responding to the chaos, Inter Milan President Giuseppe Marotta publicly and unequivocally condemned the actions of the fans. In a testament to sportsmanship, he also praised Audero’s remarkable professionalism, highlighting the goalkeeper’s willingness to continue playing the match after receiving necessary medical attention despite the ordeal.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Marotta expressed his profound shock at the incident. “This is a situation I have never experienced in my many years in my career. It was a sensational act of anti-sporting behavior,” he stated, emphasizing the gravity of the transgression. “I know the authorities are conducting an investigation. Perhaps this is an isolated incident, we await the results of the investigation, but we think the same as all fans. We have an obligation to create a culture and prevent situations like this. We condemn this extraordinary incident.”
Marotta further underscored the club’s gratitude, adding, “We also want to thank Audero for his professionalism, because as a result, the match could be played until the end.” His words reinforced Inter’s commitment to promoting a responsible fan culture and ensuring player safety within the stadium environment.
In a significant development reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport and Corriere della Sera, the perpetrator of the flare-throwing incident has been identified. The individual was linked to the event after seeking hospital treatment in Cremona for three damaged fingers. Authorities are expected to arrest the individual, who will face a stadium ban. Furthermore, this incident carries broader implications, potentially leading to a blanket ban on all Inter Milan away fans attending future matches, marking a stern warning against such disruptive and dangerous conduct.
Summary
Goalkeeper Emil Audero was struck by a flare thrown by Inter Milan fans during a Serie A match against Cremonese, halting play for medical treatment in the 49th minute. Inter Milan President Giuseppe Marotta unequivocally condemned this “anti-sporting behavior,” expressing his shock and highlighting the club’s commitment to fostering a responsible fan culture to prevent such incidents.
Marotta also praised Audero’s exceptional professionalism for continuing the match after the injury, which allowed the game to conclude. Authorities identified the perpetrator, who faces arrest and a stadium ban, and the incident may result in a blanket ban on all Inter Milan away fans from future matches.