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Grobari (Serbian Cyrillic: Гробари, lit. 'Undertakers' or 'Gravediggers') is a collective name for supporters of the Serbian multi-sport club Partizan. They are one of two major supporters' groups in Serbia and are considered one of the best and loudest groups in the world, setting a record in 2010 by reaching 113.8 decibels[1] and winning the EuroLeague's "BKT Heartbeat Challenge" award for the loudest fans in the 2024–25 season.[2]

Key Information

The group traditionally maintains Orthodox brotherhood with Greek PAOK Gate 4 and Russian CSKA Moscow ultras, and friendly relations with Bulgarian CSKA Sofia Animals, Romanian CSA Steaua București Outlaws and Polish Widzew Łódź ultras.[3][4][5] These are based on either shared religion, Slavic heritage, army club heritage or club colors.

Name

[edit]

During one of the Eternal Derbies, the south stand of Partizan Stadium was filled with army officers and agents in black coats, all supporting Partizan. Across the field, on the north stand, a rowdy, ragtag crowd cheered for Red Star. They were loud and chaotic, with some even stripping naked. As the first half neared its end, the officers in the south stand stood up and began shouting at them: "Gypsies! Gypsies! Gypsies!" In an instant, the ragged crowd on the opposite side spontaneously shouted back: "Gravediggers! Gravediggers! Gravediggers!" They were mocking the black coats worn by the officers, which resembled those of gravediggers. Over time, Partizan fans proudly adopted the name "Gravediggers," wearing it as a badge of honor.[6]

History

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Grobari celebrating Partizan's 27th league title won in 2017

1940s

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With the establishment of JSD Partizan in 1945, its first fan groups began to form. However, it was not until the early 1950s that organized supporter groups started to take shape, gathering in the stadium's south stand.[7]

1950-1970s

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By the late 1950s and early 1960s, the first flags appeared, while the 1970s brought the introduction of chants, large banners, and the official adoption of the name Grobari. These years marked the true 'birth' of Grobari as an organized group.[7] The excitement surrounding Partizan's early European competitions, including the first-ever European Cup match played between Partizan and Sporting CP, attracted many new fans, adding to the growing energy in the stands.[8] The 1966 European Cup final, played between Partizan and Real Madrid, further boosted the club's popularity, introducing even more supporters.[9] Their loyalty and dedication remained strong even during the club's downturn in results, with growing crowds continuing to gather at every match.

1980s

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The 1980s marked a period of dominance and expansion for the Grobari, in terms of their numbers, organization, and influence. This avant-garde generation, known as "Punitive Expedition", became synonymous with the emergence of a young and tough breed of supporters and set the foundation for what would become the enduring identity of the Grobari for generations to come. In large, unrelenting groups, they followed Partizan to every away game, driven by their slogan, "With Partizan to the Grave". Remarkably, this generation never truly left the stands, cementing their reputation as the most loyal and extreme fanbase.[7]

1990s

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The 1990s marked the breakup of Yugoslavia and the outbreak of the Yugoslav Wars, events in which many fans from the affected republics, along with volunteers from Serbia, became involved. In 1992, the Grobari, with the support of the club's management, established the fan association "Agencija Grobari." However, on October 3, 1999, the fan association "Južni Front" was founded in response to alleged mismanagement within "Agencija Grobari." With tacit approval from the club's negligent leadership, those in charge of "Agencija Grobari" exploited the Grobari name, tarnishing its reputation. Key issues included ticket scalping, unchecked profiteering from fan merchandise, and scandals during European away games. For a time, "Južni Front" operated in the south stand before relocating to the east stand (and to the north stand for larger matches). "Agencija Grobari" was officially dissolved after October 30, 1999. In 2000, another fan association, "Grobari 1970," was formed.[10][11]

2000s

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After the club's management decided to revoke all privileges granted to other fan associations, fulfilling part of the demands of the "Južni Front," they returned to the south stand for the first time in several years during the 124th derby on April 23, 2005.[11]

Revolted by Partizan being eliminated from the Champions League qualifications, followed by elimination from the first round of the UEFA cup and from the national cup competition by a third division team, as well as poor results in the domestic league (all at the start of the 2005–06 season), Grobari declared a complete boycott of all Partizan football club matches. Several thousand supporters gathered in September 2005 in front of the club stadium and publicly accused sports director Nenad Bjeković and general secretary Žarko Zečević of tampering with the club's operating budget and transfer policy in order to line their own pockets. On this occasion, they also reminded the public of some previous club officials' machinations.

Grobari during a protest in front of the Partizan stadium in October 2005.

They demanded club management resignations as a condition for getting back to the stadium stands. Grobari repeated the massive gathering and reiterated their demands in October 2005 in front of the national theatre in downtown Belgrade where Partizan's officials were celebrating the club's 60th anniversary. Both city football derbies between Red Star and Partizan in the 2005–06 season were played without traditional support toward Partizan from the south stands. Although these matches used to gather up tens of thousands and even more fans to the stadiums, the infamous record was established this season when there was only a few thousand spectators on the Partizan stadium, since the rival fans also agreed to boycott the derby (but for other reasons).

After certain changes in the club board, Grobari decided to stop boycotting. On 26 May 2007, they returned to the stadium for a Superliga match against Mladost Apatin which Partizan won 7–1, however they kept on singing insulting songs about Partizan's sports director and general secretary.

By the end of the year both Bjeković and Zečević resigned from their positions.

Ban from Europe

[edit]

In the 2007–08 UEFA cup, Partizan Belgrade was disqualified from further competition because of football hooliganism against Zrinjski Mostar. Grobari traveled in numbers to Mostar where they fought with the police and also Zrinjski fans. Partizan won the tie 11–1 on aggregate.

2011 split

[edit]

In late August 2011, another split among Grobari occurred. A faction of fans calling themselves Zabranjeni (The Forbidden) accused the club board of denying them entrance to the stadium.[12] They are also in disagreement with some other Grobari subgroups, primarily Alcatraz. They attend the games of other teams from Partizan multi-sports club, such as ice hockey[13] or women's basketball[14] teams. In November, a small group were at the match against Borac Čačak. In 2012, they started attending Partizan football games on the east stand.

Structure

[edit]

Grobari's organizational structure is relatively decentralized, consisting of multiple subgroups based at the south stand. The number, influence, and visibility of these subgroups have varied over time.

Current groups are:[15][16]

Other fans are non-organized or belong to lesser-known groups.

Notable leaders

[edit]
  • Nebojša Andrić Belgija[17]
  • Zoran Živanović Čegi[18]
  • Miloš Radisavljević Kimi[19]

Politics

[edit]

Anti-government sentiment

[edit]

Since 2016, Grobari have consistently expressed their vocal opposition to the government of President Aleksandar Vučić, frequently chanting the derogatory slogan "Vučiću pederu!" ("Vučić, faggot!") at various matches.[20][21]

This opposition stands in contrast to Delije, whose silence is interpreted as tacit support for both the government and President Vučić, a self-identified Delija. The Grobari have repeatedly called them out, chanting slogans such as "Delije, ajmo svi u glas, Aleksandar Vučić jedan je od nas!" ("Delije, let's all shout together, Aleksandar Vučić is one of us!").[22][23][24]

Since the collapse of the Novi Sad railway station canopy and the start of subsequent anti-corruption protests, the Grobari's dissatisfaction has only grown louder. They have displayed banners such as "Students IN, Vučić OUT" in the south stand and chanted slogans like "Vučiću pederu!", "Pumpaj!", and "Ko ne skače, taj je ćaci!" at numerous matches, all of which are popular slogans from the protests.[25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33]

During the eternal derby in April 2025, a scandal broke out when the country's largest sports channel, Arena Sport, muted the live broadcast to prevent the airing of anti-government chants by Grobari.[34]

For the major protest scheduled for March 15, the Grobari sent a strong message with a banner reading "Partizan i studenti iznad svih" ("Partizan and students above all") and an announcement that they would be taking to the streets to protect their fellow citizens, saying, "If they attack you, let us handle it!"[35][36]

Neo-Nazism

[edit]

Partizan faced numerous fines and sanctions due to Grobari's racist, nationalistic, and violent behavior, accumulating over €2 million in penalties between 2010 and 2023.[37]

In a 2014 match against Tottenham Hotspur, fans unfurled an antisemitic banner inspired by the Only Fools and Horses logo, which read: "Only Jews and Pussies".[38]

Another incident occurred in 2019, when fans showed a Neo-Nazi Celtic cross banner in a match against Yeni Malatyaspor.[39] This was not the first instance of such imagery being used, as the symbol had appeared on the south stand as early as 2009 or earlier.[40]

In 2020, the official group YouTube channel uploaded a video featuring fans wearing t-shirts emblazoned with the slogan "Love Partizan, hate Antifa" on the front, where the letter "O" was replaced by a shield featuring the Nazi Týr rune. On the back, the shirts displayed a Celtic cross and the Serbian eagle used by the Government of National Salvation. In the background, the Celtic cross banner appears once again alongside banners reading: "Europe knows, but refuses to admit it – Ratko defended us from terrorism." and "Stop Islamization of Serbia, stop migrants!" while the fans chanted "Ratko Mladić".[41]

References

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[edit]
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Grobari

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Grobari (Serbian Cyrillic: Гробари, meaning "gravediggers") is the collective name for the organized supporters of the Serbian multi-sport club Partizan, based in , with a primary focus on its . The nickname derives from the proximity of Partizan's to a . Formed as an organized group in 1970, Grobari emerged from earlier informal fan gatherings dating back to the club's founding in 1945 and quickly became one of Serbia's two dominant supporter factions, alongside Red Star Belgrade's . Renowned for their fervent loyalty, Grobari produce elaborate choreographed displays, pyrotechnic shows, and relentless chants that create an intimidating atmosphere at matches, extending support across Partizan's various sports sections including and . Their features crossed shovels and picks, symbolizing the "gravedigger" identity. However, the group has faced criticism for involvement in fan violence, during derbies, and provocative banners highlighting broader issues in Serbian culture. Grobari have also engaged in political protests, reflecting a mix of sentiments and nationalist leanings observed among many Balkan fan groups.

Origins and Formation

Post-World War II Roots

The Grobari supporter movement for emerged in the wake of , directly linked to the club's founding on July 4, 1945, by officers of the as part of the broader effort to promote sports within the new communist federation. The name Partizan honored the communist Partisan guerrilla forces that resisted Axis occupation, fostering an initial fanbase among military personnel, industrial workers, and residents who identified with the club's anti-fascist symbolism and its role in post-war national reconstruction. These early supporters, though unstructured, expressed loyalty through attendance at matches in 's nascent stadiums, where Partizan's black-and-white kit symbolized resilience amid Yugoslavia's socio-economic recovery under Josip Broz Tito's regime. By the early 1950s, as Partizan transitioned from military affiliation to a civilian club within the —winning its first title in the 1946–47 season—fan organization began to coalesce around neighborhood-based gatherings. Supporters from areas like , Rakovica, Senjak, and Topčider concentrated on the northern and southern ends of the JNA Stadium (formerly the King Alexander I Stadium), marking the shift from sporadic attendance to territorial claims on seating sections that foreshadowed later ultras divisions. This period saw the adoption of the "Grobari" moniker, originally a mocking label from rivals alluding to the black jerseys evoking gravediggers' attire, which fans reclaimed as a badge of defiant identity tied to the club's underdog status against state-favored competitors. Into the late 1950s, proto-Grobari practices solidified with the introduction of club flags at matches and informal meetups at landmarks, building communal rituals amid Yugoslavia's thawing cultural policies that allowed greater fan expression. Partizan's European exploits, including a semifinal run in the 1955–56 , amplified supporter fervor, drawing crowds that averaged over 20,000 for domestic derbies and embedding the group in the city's working-class fabric despite periodic state oversight of football to curb potential dissent. These roots laid the foundation for Grobari's enduring ethos, distinct from Red Star's perceived alignment with regime elites, though organized structures would not fully materialize until the 1970s.

Emergence as Organized Supporters in the 1980s

The marked a pivotal phase in the Grobari's development, as a younger, more energetic generation infused the group with a militant and , transforming them from a named collective—established in —into a highly coordinated entity capable of widespread mobilization. This era saw the adoption of structured travel expeditions to domestic and European matches, reinforcing their core motto "With Partizan to the Grave" via operations dubbed "Kaznena Ekspedicija" (Punishment Expedition), which emphasized territorial dominance and intimidation tactics against rival fans. Influenced by emerging European ultras models, Grobari began prioritizing choreographed displays, persistent chanting, and flag-waving, aligning with a pro-English orientation in contrast to rivals' Italian leanings. Notable clashes underscored their organizational maturity and readiness for confrontation. In 1981, Grobari supporters detained Hajduk Split fans at the Palas hotel in Split following a match, exemplifying early coordinated away actions. Similar escalations occurred in during the 1982/83 season, involving property destruction, while the 1985 "Supporters' Night of Terror" in Sid involved widespread unrest tied to a Partizan fixture, cementing their reputation for synchronized group violence. These incidents, often involving hundreds of participants, reflected internal hierarchies forming around and roles, distinct from the looser gatherings of prior decades. Amid these tensions, Grobari demonstrated unwavering loyalty during competitive highs, such as the fervent backing in the 1983 league clash against Dinamo Zagreb and the 1984 UEFA Cup return leg versus Queens Park Rangers at Partizan's JNA Stadium, where large-scale tifos and synchronized support amplified the atmosphere. By the late , their ability to "outmarch" to virtually all Partizan games positioned them among Yugoslavia's premier fan organizations, fostering a culture of total commitment that extended beyond stadiums to street-level enforcement of fan territories. This organizational surge laid groundwork for their role in the turbulent , though it also drew scrutiny from authorities amid rising in Yugoslav football.

Ideology, Symbols, and Culture

Core Beliefs and Political Orientation

The Grobari's core beliefs revolve around an intense, romanticized devotion to , viewing the club as an embodiment of authenticity and resistance against modern football's and external influences. This manifests in a of perpetual , symbolized by their "gravedigger" moniker, which evokes burying opponents and preserving the club's roots from its founding by Yugoslav Partisan fighters in 1945. Supporters prioritize collective rituals, such as mass choreographies and chants, over individual spectacle, fostering a that equates with and communal . Politically, the Grobari align predominantly with right-wing nationalism, emphasizing Serbian ethnic identity, historical grievances, and opposition to perceived threats to national sovereignty. Their symbolism often draws from medieval Serbian heroes like Tsar Lazar, who represents defiance at the in 1389, extending to contemporary figures such as , convicted in 2016 for war crimes but idolized by some as a defender of Serb interests during the 1990s Yugoslav conflicts. This orientation reflects a broader pattern among Serbian , where political engagement prioritizes ethno-nationalist agendas over leftist or cosmopolitan alternatives, though individual views within the group show some diversity. Historically, during the breakup of in the early , segments of the Grobari embraced Serbian nationalist causes, with members volunteering for combat roles in support of Serb forces under Slobodan Milošević's regime. In the post-Milošević era, their activism has included vocal anti-regime protests, adapting nationalist rhetoric to critique domestic governance while maintaining alliances with like-minded groups across the , such as PAOK's supporters in , bonded by shared anti-rival sentiments rather than strict . This evolution underscores a causal shift from the club's anti-fascist origins to a pragmatic shaped by Serbia's wartime experiences and ongoing territorial disputes.

Traditions, Choreographies, and Fan Practices

The Grobari maintain a tradition of unwavering vocal support during matches, characterized by continuous chanting and drumming regardless of the scoreline, as exemplified by their sustained singing and ovations throughout a 1-6 loss to Hajduk Split in 1976. This practice underscores their core slogan, "Do groba uz Partizan" (With Partizan to the Grave), symbolizing lifelong devotion to the club. Post-match rituals often include extended ovations, such as the 30-minute applause following a basketball defeat to Maccabi Tel Aviv in the 1990s, reinforcing a culture of loyalty over results. Choreographies, or , typically involve large banners, flags, and , though historically limited in complexity due to an emphasis on vocal intensity and occasional hooligan elements; early examples include supporter flags from the 1950s and expanded large flags in the 1970s, with derby-specific displays capturing rival symbols. In the Eternal Derby against , Grobari deploy well-coordinated with smoke, firecrackers, and banners to heighten intimidation, contributing to atmospheres that draw over 50,000 spectators. Notable instances include a pyro show marking their 50th anniversary on , 2020, at Stadion Partizana. Fan practices center on organized chants expressing territorial loyalty, such as "Gde god ti da igras, tu su tvoji Grobari" (Wherever you play, there are your Grobari), performed to demonstrate omnipresent support. Additional songs invoke sacrifice for the club, like those pledging life for Partizan's black-and-white colors, while post-match renditions of "Časovi ljubavi" (Moments of Devotion) serve as a trademark gesture of enduring affection. Away expeditions, known as "Kaznena Ekspedicija" (Punishment Expedition) in the 1980s, involve following the team nationwide and abroad, often with confrontational elements, as in the 1981 Split hotel incident or 1990 Maksimir clashes. These elements extend to basketball, where similar passionate displays occur at venues like Stark Arena.

Organizational Structure

Subgroups and Internal Divisions

The Grobari supporters' group of Partizan is structured around multiple factions primarily based in the south stand (Južna tribina), with Alcatraz emerging as one of the largest and most influential subgroups within Grobari . Alcatraz has been characterized by strong political ties and involvement in , often using stadium space for political messaging, which has fueled tensions with other factions seeking a purer focus on fan support. Other prominent subgroups include Zabranjeni and Partizanovci, alongside smaller entities like Grobari 1970 and Južni Front, which collectively form a loose federation under the Grobari umbrella but maintain distinct identities and territories within the stands. Internal divisions within Grobari have intensified since the early , driven by disputes over , political influence, and control of resources such as merchandise and choreography coordination. A notable split occurred around 2011, fragmenting the group into at least three main factions—Grobari Jug, Zabranjeni, and Partizanovci—with proposals for a fourth emerging by October 2019 amid accusations of factional dominance in the south stand. These rifts escalated into public brawls, including a mass confrontation in the southern stands where factions competed for supremacy, highlighting underlying power struggles exacerbated by external criminal networks infiltrating subgroups like the Principi group (formerly Janjičari), which maintains ties to over 29 Grobari entities. Despite these fractures, subgroups occasionally collaborate on core activities like tifos and chants, though ideological differences—such as Alcatraz's alignment with certain political actors versus rivals' emphasis on autonomy—persist as flashpoints.

Leadership and Governance

The Grobari maintain a decentralized organizational structure characterized by multiple subgroups and local cells that control specific districts or sections of the south stand at Partizan's JNA Stadium, often marked by territorial graffiti. These cells, typically comprising five or six members, handle coordination of activities such as mobilization for matches and protests, with cell leaders reporting to higher figures within the broader group. Unlike more rigidly hierarchical rival supporter groups like the Delije, the Grobari's setup emphasizes informal networks over strict centralization, allowing subgroups such as Alcatraz, South Side, and others to operate with relative autonomy while aligning on core support for Partizan. Leadership selection prioritizes individuals with extensive stadium experience, demonstrated commitment to the group, personal charisma, and authority earned through loyalty, rather than formal elections or statutes. Cell and leaders wield influence through these qualities, directing operations like , travel to away games, and responses to perceived threats, but overarching direction lacks a single, publicly prominent figurehead. Internal is thus fluid and consensus-based among key influencers, though contested control over lucrative stand territories—yielding revenue from ticket resales, merchandise, and unofficial sponsorships—has fueled divisions, often intertwined with political and affiliations rather than purely fan rivalries. For instance, subgroups like Young Boys have attempted takeovers of prime south stand areas, leading to violent clashes and the 2015 killing of its leader, Aleksandar Joksic, amid disputes over dominance. This structure enables rapid mobilization—evident in coordinated protests, such as those against club management decisions—but also perpetuates instability, with leadership transitions frequently marked by , assassinations, or alliances with external power brokers. As of , the group comprised around 800 registered active supporters, many organized into these potentially violent subgroups, underscoring a governance model reliant on interpersonal authority and territorial control rather than codified rules.

Involvement in Conflicts and Nationalism

Role During the Breakup of Yugoslavia

During the escalating ethnic tensions of the late 1980s and early 1990s, Grobari, as supporters of the army-affiliated Partizan Belgrade, increasingly incorporated Serbian nationalist rhetoric into their displays, mirroring the broader politicization of football under Slobodan Milošević's regime. Matches became platforms for anti-secessionist chants and banners opposing Croatian and Slovenian independence aspirations, with Partizan and Red Star clubs serving as emotive symbols of Serb identity amid Milošević's centralist policies. As armed conflicts erupted in 1991 with and declaring independence, Grobari contributed to the nationalist atmosphere through stadium protests and violent clashes with fans from breakaway republics, amplifying ethnic divisions that foreshadowed wider warfare. Serbian football ultras, including Grobari members, were instrumental in Milošević's efforts, with their organized groups fostering recruitment for Serb causes and formations. Throughout the (1991–1995), numerous Grobari volunteered for the (JNA) and Serb territorial defense units in and Bosnia-Herzegovina, bolstering frontline efforts aligned with Belgrade's territorial claims. Their involvement reflected the fusion of fan loyalty with Milošević-era patriotism, though specific casualty or enlistment figures for Grobari remain undocumented in primary records, unlike more publicized ties of rival to units like Arkan's Tigers. This period solidified Grobari's reputation for blending club devotion with irredentist nationalism, influencing their post-war identity.

Nationalist Activities and Symbols Post-1990s

In the years following the Yugoslav conflicts, Grobari continued to express Serbian nationalist sentiments through match-day displays, including banners and choreographies emphasizing and ethnic identity. For instance, in September 2023, Grobari joined rival supporters in unfurling a large banner thanking Romanian fans for echoing the slogan "Kosovo is ," highlighting solidarity with positions rejecting 's independence. Similarly, in January 2022, members of Grobari participated in a in supporting Bosnian Serb separatism, carrying black flags outlining the entity alongside standard Serbian tricolor flags. Grobari's symbols post-1990s have incorporated elements reinforcing Serbian orthodoxy and historical claims, such as the from the on banners, often paired with club motifs like the "" skull emblem adapted to evoke defiance against perceived external threats. These displays frequently appear in choreographies protesting international interventions, including anti-NATO motifs referencing the 1999 bombing of , though such elements blend club loyalty with broader patriotic narratives. Notable incidents underscore intersections of and . During a September 18, 2014, Europa League match against Tottenham Hotspur, Grobari unveiled an antisemitic banner depicting a bank guarded by figures with Stars of David and the inscription in Serbian translating to "Spurs are scum. Jewish pigs, we will do you in," prompting to partially close Partizan's stadium for their next European fixture and fine the club. Partizan issued a condemnation, attributing it to a fringe , but the event reflected persistent ethnic within circles. Grobari subgroups have also mobilized against events perceived as eroding traditional values, including vocal opposition to Belgrade's annual parades since the 2010 riots, where football hooligans, including , clashed with police to disrupt proceedings framed as Western-imposed cultural shifts. Politically, Grobari have aligned with nationalist factions, with subgroups reportedly favoring the (SRS), known for its rejection of EU integration and emphasis on ideals, though formal ties remain informal and contested. These activities have drawn sanctions from and domestic authorities for racist and nationalistic infractions, contributing to cumulative penalties exceeding €2 million by the mid-2010s, primarily from discriminatory banners and chants targeting opponents' ethnicities.

Rivalries and Violence

Clashes with Domestic Rivals like

The rivalry between Grobari and has manifested in recurrent violent clashes, particularly surrounding the Eternal Derby matches between Partizan and , often escalating into organized fights, missile exchanges, and confrontations with authorities. These incidents reflect deep-seated animosities rooted in club loyalties, with both groups deploying coordinated subgroups for pre- and post-match ambushes, contributing to the derby's reputation as one of Europe's most hazardous fixtures. A landmark tragedy occurred on 21 March 1999 during a league game at Red Star's Marakana Stadium, where 17-year-old supporter Aleksandar Radović was fatally struck in the neck by a flare fired from the Partizan end occupied by . The incident, which halted play and drew widespread condemnation, underscored the lethal potential of and inter-group hostilities amid Yugoslavia's dissolution. In April 2015, pre- riots involving Grobari and delayed kick-off by 45 minutes, as fans hurled missiles, deployed stun grenades, and engaged in pitched battles inside and outside Red Star's stadium, injuring dozens including police. A subsequent May 2015 saw further anarchy, with violence before, during, and after the match resulting in 41 arrests and the interception of a van carrying weapons from . Clashes have continued sporadically into the and , often tied to derbies or off-pitch provocations, such as a December 2017 match marred by hooligan disruptions requiring mass police interventions. Street-level engagements, including ambushes on rival gatherings, persist, as evidenced by a reported assault on Grobari near Partizan's stadium on 7 October 2025, targeting fan merchandise outlets and prompting police response. These events highlight ongoing challenges in containing ultras-driven violence despite stadium bans and security measures.

Incidents with International Opponents

On September 17, 2009, prior to a UEFA Europa League match between Partizan Belgrade and Toulouse FC at the Partizan Stadium, a group of Grobari members attacked French supporters in a nearby bar, resulting in severe injuries to Brice Taton, a 28-year-old Toulouse fan. Taton sustained critical brain trauma and other wounds during the assault, which involved multiple assailants using blunt objects; he died on September 29, 2009, in a Belgrade hospital after two surgeries failed to save him. Serbian authorities arrested 11 suspects shortly after, with several Grobari-affiliated individuals later convicted of murder; in 2011, five received prison sentences ranging from 6 to 22 years, including one minor tried as an adult. The incident prompted UEFA to fine Partizan €100,000 and contributed to broader scrutiny of fan violence in Serbian football, though Partizan officials condemned the attack and visited Taton's grave in France. During Partizan's 2014 UEFA Europa League group stage match against Tottenham Hotspur on September 18, Grobari supporters displayed a large antisemitic banner reading "Your dead 'heroes' are just like you: DEAD," targeting Tottenham's Jewish fanbase and historical associations; no physical clashes were reported, but the display drew widespread condemnation from , the club, and anti-discrimination groups, leading to a €56,000 fine for Partizan. Partizan issued a statement disavowing the banner as contrary to club values, but the event highlighted persistent issues with discriminatory behavior among the group's hardcore elements during European fixtures. Grobari have been implicated in other disruptions during Partizan's continental ties, contributing to over €2 million in cumulative penalties between 2010 and 2023 for crowd disturbances, , and pitch invasions, often escalating tensions with visiting supporters. These incidents reflect a pattern of aggressive territoriality in home , though away matches have seen fewer documented direct confrontations with opponents, partly due to travel restrictions and police monitoring.

Controversies and Criticisms

Alleged Ties to and

Certain subgroups within the Grobari, such as the Janjičari (also known as Principi or Belivuk-Miljković ), have been implicated in activities including drug trafficking, , , and multiple murders. Veljko Belivuk, alias "Velja Nevolja," a prominent Janjičari leader and self-identified Partizan supporter, was arrested on February 4, 2021, at the in along with nearly two dozen associates; he faced charges for four murders, , and drug trafficking linked to the Montenegrin Kavac cartel. Belivuk's group operated a "house of horror" near where rivals were tortured and dismembered, with evidence emerging from police raids in 2021 revealing human remains and tools used in dismemberments. Prior to Belivuk, Janjičari was led by Aleksandar Stanković ("Sale the Mute"), who was involved in a 2013 conviction for organizing a drug-selling ring and firearms possession (sentenced to five years and ten months but had his prison term postponed 12 times); Stanković was assassinated in a on October 13, 2016, in , amid rivalries with Montenegrin crime networks. Another Grobari subgroup, the "Forbidden" faction, saw its leader Alen Kostić killed by gunshot in August 2016 in Belgrade's Zeleznik neighborhood; Kostić faced at least 15 prior charges for and , highlighting patterns of violence intertwined with fan activities. Serbian authorities arrested 17 individuals tied to Partizan supporter groups in February 2021 for a decade-long pattern of , including murders and narcotics distribution, as part of a broader crackdown announced by President targeting hooligan-linked syndicates. These incidents reflect how some Grobari elements evolved from matchday into structured criminal enterprises, often leveraging fan networks for recruitment and intimidation. Allegations of political ties center on claims that criminal Grobari subgroups received protection or operational leeway from state actors, particularly under the (SNS) government. Opposition figures and investigations assert that Belivuk's group provided security for Vučić's 2017 inauguration and maintained links to SNS official Novak Nedić, who allegedly influenced hooligan dynamics at Partizan; former Interior Ministry official Dijana Hrkalović was questioned over ties to Belivuk during his ascent. Vučić publicly defended delaying prosecutions against figures like Stanković following a 2016 attack on a Partizan executive's entourage, framing hooligans as tools against opposition protests. Broader reports describe football ultras, including Grobari factions, being mobilized as proxies in political demonstrations and nationalist events, with criminal elements allegedly shielded until high-profile scandals forced action in 2021. Historically, Grobari have aligned with ultranationalist sentiments, including support for the (SRS) during the and , manifesting in murals honoring wartime figures and participation in right-wing rallies, though direct partisan control remains contested and often denied by authorities. These connections underscore a pattern where fan loyalty intersects with state power and underworld violence, though convictions have primarily targeted criminal acts rather than proven political orchestration. In September 2009, Serbia's public prosecutor filed a motion with the seeking to prohibit the violent and criminal activities of 14 extremist groups associated with the supporters of Partizan Belgrade, including subgroups within the Grobari, as well as rival fans. The initiative targeted organizations linked to repeated , but the court did not fully uphold the ban, allowing many groups to continue operations amid ongoing concerns over inadequate enforcement. Legal actions have frequently focused on Grobari leaders and members accused of orchestrating violence and ties to . In February 2021, Veljko Belivuk, known as "Velja Nevolja" and a prominent Grobari capo, was arrested at Partizan's stadium along with 14 associates on charges including , , and related to fan-related conflicts. Belivuk's group faced allegations of using hooligan networks for and vendettas, leading to high-profile trials that exposed intersections between leadership and criminal syndicates. Similar arrests in 2021 targeted other figures with government ties, resulting in charges under Serbia's anti-hooliganism statutes, which authorize fines up to €600,000 and multi-year stadium bans for perpetrators. Domestic and international authorities have imposed fines and partial bans on Partizan Belgrade due to Grobari misconduct. In November 2013, Serbia's government committee fined Partizan and for fan violence, demanding swift prosecution of hooligans involved in clashes that injured police. has repeatedly penalized the club for Grobari actions, including a two-match partial closure in August 2017 following racist chants and behavior during a Europa League qualifier. More recently, in August 2025, fined Partizan €90,250 for incidents including a provocative banner and offensive chants at home European games against Hibernian and other opponents. The club has also internally banned disruptive Grobari subgroups from matches, though enforcement remains inconsistent due to fears of retaliation.

Recent Developments and Activities

Events and Clashes in the 2020s

In March 2020, ahead of the Eternal Derby between Partizan and , members of Grobari's Zabranjeni subgroup clashed with ultras in , involving physical confrontations reported in fan footage. On April 7, 2022, during 's UEFA Conference League match against in , Grobari joined allied hooligans in street clashes with local police and supporters outside the Vélodrome stadium, contributing to broader Balkan hooligan networks fueling transnational . Throughout 2025, rivalries with Delije escalated into multiple documented street fights and stadium invasions in Serbia. Incidents included a February 8 brawl in Nikšić, Montenegro, during a Delije-organized humanitarian concert; an April 30 street confrontation in Belgrade where Grobari outnumbered Delije; a June 10 ambush by Delije following a Partizan basketball game, involving gunfire that wounded three Grobari and led to four arrests; a September 12 attack on Grobari in a pub after Partizan's match against PAOK; and an October 7 incursion by Delije into Partizan Stadium targeting Grobari supporters. Internationally, three Grobari were assaulted in Split, Croatia, on October 11 after Partizan's basketball loss to KK Split, highlighting persistent regional tensions. Grobari also engaged in domestic unrest beyond football rivalries. On September 24, 2024, following Partizan's 4-0 league defeat to Red Star, frustrated Grobari invaded the team's dressing room at the Partizan Stadium, vandalizing property and inflicting a head injury on head coach Aleksandar Stanojević. In August 2025, during UEFA Conference League qualifiers, Grobari displayed a "Kosovo is Serbia" banner and chanted discriminatory slogans, resulting in a fine from UEFA for breaching rules on provocative messaging. The group aligned with anti-government student protests, participating in a June 28, 2025, demonstration in Belgrade that turned violent with clashes against police, amid broader demands against President Aleksandar Vučić's administration. Later that year, Grobari led chants targeting Vučić during matches in September and October, positioning themselves against perceived corruption in contrast to pro-government Delije. Internal divisions surfaced on October 24, 2025, with fights among Grobari subgroups in the stands during Partizan's basketball game against Paris Basketball.

Support for Partizan Across Sports

Grobari, the organized supporters of Partizan , extend their allegiance beyond football to the club's basketball section, where they contribute to a renowned atmosphere at Stark Arena during and domestic competitions. Their presence includes choreographed tifos, persistent chanting, and pyrotechnic displays, often sustaining support through defeats, as observed in a March 6, 2025, match against Panathinaikos. This vocal backing has been credited by players, such as , who in September 2025 expressed gratitude for the group's welcoming energy that reignited his passion for the sport. In June 2023, Grobari celebrated Partizan's championship with mass gatherings and displays outside the arena, underscoring their role in amplifying the club's successes across basketball disciplines. Their involvement peaks during high-stakes derbies and , where attendance draws thousands, blending football traditions with 's faster-paced environment to foster a familial, intense fan culture distinct from more casual European crowds. Support for other Partizan sections, such as or , appears more sporadic, with Grobari subgroups occasionally attending but not matching the scale or consistency seen in or football. For instance, during a , 2025, against Crvena Zvezda, rival fans noted minimal Grobari turnout despite the match's location near their traditional areas. This selective extension reflects the group's prioritization of Partizan's flagship sports while maintaining overarching loyalty to the multi-sport club's ethos.

Legacy and Impact

Contributions to Fan Culture

The Grobari have shaped fan culture in Serbian and Balkan football through their emphasis on organized, visually striking displays, including large-scale tifos and pyrotechnic shows that enhance match atmospheres. These elements, adapted from broader European influences, feature coordinated banners and smoke effects in the south stand of , establishing a template for immersive, high-energy support that distinguishes their events. Their choreographed actions, such as synchronized chants and sector-wide visuals, have promoted a model of collective participation among groups, influencing regional practices by prioritizing visual spectacle and auditory intensity over passive spectatorship. This approach fosters a sense of communal identity, with subgroups like Južni Front coordinating efforts to maintain continuity in displays across decades. Beyond stadium rituals, the Grobari have inspired cultural extensions like "Grobarski Trash Romantizam," a Belgrade-based artistic movement blending fan aesthetics with urban expression, reflecting their romanticized devotion to Partizan as a element. This phenomenon underscores their broader impact on supporter subcultures, where loyalty manifests in creative outputs beyond matches.

Broader Societal Influence and Debates

Grobari have exerted influence on Serbian society through their participation in political protests and expressions of nationalism. Subgroups within Grobari, such as the Janissaries, joined broader hooligan efforts in the 2000 Bulldozer Revolution protests that contributed to the overthrow of President Slobodan Milošević on October 5, 2000, by storming key institutions in Belgrade. Similarly, Grobari-affiliated hooligans were involved in the 2008 riots that resulted in the burning of the U.S. embassy in Belgrade following Kosovo's declaration of independence on February 17, 2008, reflecting nationalist sentiments over territorial integrity. Historically, elements of Grobari aligned with during the 1990s , supporting ultra-nationalist militias like the Tigers and initially backing Milošević's regime before shifting to opposition. In recent years, Grobari have demonstrated against the current government under President Aleksandar Vučić, notably chanting derogatory slogans against him during the March 10, 2024, Eternal Derby between Partizan and , amid ongoing post-election protests alleging fraud in December 2023. The group also displayed pro-Russian banners at the same event, underscoring alignments with over integration debates. Debates surrounding Grobari's societal role center on their dual capacity as agents of political mobilization and sources of extremism. Critics argue their nationalist rhetoric and history of violence, including opposition to events like the 2010 Belgrade Pride Parade where hooligans clashed with police, perpetuate far-right ideologies and undermine democratic norms. Proponents of their influence highlight how their street presence has challenged authoritarian control, as seen in anti-Milošević actions and recent student-backed demonstrations, positioning them as an independent force beyond state manipulation despite allegations of government co-optation in other contexts. This tension reflects broader discussions in on the interplay between fan culture, , and political agency, where Grobari's actions often amplify societal divisions over identity, governance, and .

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