For those that say that the Europa League is not worth anything – try telling that to Brighton fans. The Seagulls have been enjoying their first foray into Europe this season, and it is about to get even better as they gear up for their first ever European knockout tie – against Roma at Stadio Olimpico on Thursday 7 March at 17:45 (UK time).
Seeing numerous reports that some Brighton fans were attacked in Rome last night, with many fans saying, it’s “worse than Marseille”. 😡
Any Brighton fans heading to Rome for the game, please stay safe… 🤞 #BHAFC pic.twitter.com/JXu34trXLI
— Football Away Days (@FBAwayDays) March 7, 2024
How many Brighton fans are going to Rome?
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Brighton have received an allocation of 3,425 tickets, but given the size of the game, it might be expected that 4,000 or perhaps even more will travel.
Those travelling can expect a strong police presence – justified or not, English fans are always seen as a potential threat by European police, and 7th March will be no different.
Brighton fans will most likely be used to this already. Despite this being only their fourth ever European away, the first three have come in huge footballing cities – Marseille, Amsterdam (for Ajax) and Athens (for AEK Athens).
Where do the Brighton fans sit in the Stadio Olimpico?
Brighton fans will be sat in the Distinti Nord Ovest in the North West of the stadium. Away fans should go to the Ferraris IV access gate, near Largo Ferraris IV.
Full fans’ matchday guide for Roma vs Brighton
The 4,000 or so fans who are travelling to the Italian capital will need somewhere to eat and, just as importantly, drink. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Where to eat and drink for Brighton fans in Rome
One great spot for Brighton fans in Rome is Finnegan’s on Via Leonina 66 in Monti. The only Irish pub in Rome, Finnegan’s will show pretty much any football game that’s on TV, and any homesick Brighton fans will be comforted by the darts, pool, crisps and nuts that are on offer.
If you’re looking for somewhere a little more Italian, Birreria Eataly on Piazzale 12 Ottobre 1492 in Ostiense should sort you out. It’s a bit more upmarket, with craft beers and various aperitivos. Plus, if you fancy some privacy, it’s a got a VIP room with private sofas and a personal TV screen.
Finally, if you’re just after some food near the ground, Figo Street Food on Via Tor di Quinto 56a does brilliant Sicilian specialties like arancini, cannoli, and various sandwiches.
Ticket collection info for Brighton fans in Rome
All tickets will have to be collected at the ticket collection point in Rome prior to the match. Supporters must bring photo ID and will only be able to collect their own ticket.
The location of the collection point has not yet been announced but Brighton say that it will likely open the day before the game and reopen the morning of the game until two or three hours before kick-off.
How to get to the Stadio Olimpico: Guide for Brighton fans in Rome
Unlike many European cities, the metro is not actually the best way to travel to the Stadio Olimpico – Rome does have a metro system, but it is the smallest in Europe.
Instead, from the city centre, you are better off taking the number 628 bus from Senato. It should take just over 20 minutes before you arrive at a stop called De Bosis/Stadio Tennis. From there it is a short walk to the stadium.
Rome’s main airport, Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino, is quite far outside of the city to the south west. This means getting to the stadium is quite a tricky journey. The best way is to take the RV 4669 train to Roma Termini, then take metro line A to the city centre, where you can take a bus such as the 628 to the stadium. The total journey time should be around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Driving is not advised as it can get extremely busy, but if that is your only option then the best places to park are the Piazzale Clodio, Viale XVII Olimpiade, or Viale Tor di Quinto.