Spanish Soccer Fans Attack Opposing Team's Bus

Fans of the Real Sociedad soccer team attacked the bus of visiting team Atletico Madrid when it arrived at the Reale Arena in Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain, on January 19.

In this video, the manager of Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone, appears to confront the crowd, as well as police, whom he later said offered inadequate protection.

The video, taken by El Diario Vasco journalist Benat Arnaiz, shows Simeone gesticulating from the front of his team’s bus. Real Sociedad fans can be seen surrounding and kicking the bus as objects are thrown in the street.

“The fans were waiting for the [home team] bus, but the visitor appeared first, and the fans began to throw objects. Diego Pablo Simeone’s [gestures] were towards the police for not protecting them properly, not towards the local fans,” Arnaiz told Storyful.

Real Sociedad said they regretted and condemned the incidents that occurred as Atletico Madrid arrived at the Reale Arena, according to a Google translation.

“The uncivil attitude of a minority outside the stadium does not represent the true fans, who throughout yesterday’s match showed an exemplary and sporting attitude. Once again, Real Sociedad rejects any violent conduct and will continue to promote the values ​​of sport,” they said. Credit: Beñat Arnaiz, El Diario Vasco via Storyful