West Ham’s notorious ‘Inter City Firm’ aren’t your average group of supporters, conjuring images of chaos and fear amongst rival gangs during the turbulent years of English hooliganism.
Formed in the late 1970s, they earned a reputation for their fierce clashes with other firms and their dedication to following West Ham United both home and away.
The ICF quickly became one of the most feared football firms in the UK, with a penchant for causing havoc on match days.
Their exploits became so infamous that several books were written about them, and even films like “Green Street Hooligans” were inspired by their notoriety.
However, it’s important to remember that these stories don’t represent the majority of West Ham fans who are passionate about supporting their team without resorting to violence. Let’s take a closer look at some key moments from the ICF’s history:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| Late 1970s | Formation of ICF |
| 1985 | Luton Town Riot |
| 2009 | Millwall Carling Cup Clash |
| Ongoing | Police Crackdowns |
The Luton Town Riot in 1985 was one such defining moment when violence erupted between West Ham fans (including members of the ICF) and police officers after an FA Cup match.
Similarly, in 2009, tensions escalated between West Ham and Millwall fans during a Carling Cup game which led to numerous arrests and injuries.
Despite ongoing crackdowns by law enforcement on football hooliganism across the UK, remnants of these violent fan groups still exist today.
As you revel in your subconscious desire for freedom, remember that while passion is essential within football culture, it should never cross over into violence or intimidation – true freedom lies in enjoying the beautiful game without fear or disruption.
