The interdependence between a football club and its ultra-fandom in relation to "Modern" football: a case study of Legia Warsaw

Purpose/Rationale: Due to the increasing commercialisation of football, the rise of "Against Modern Football" (AMF) movements has been investigated in several European countries. Using Legia Warsaw football club as an example, this study examines the consequences of football modernisation and commercialisation in Poland. Design/Methodology/Approach: Interviews with Legia Warsaw's Supporter Liaison Officer (SLO) and ultra-fans (n = 5) were thematically analysed. Findings: Key themes were identified in relation to the sociological portrait of Legia Warsaw ultra-fans, the interdependence between a football club and its ultra-fandom, the role of the SLO, the role of commercialisation in the AMF's movement in Poland and finally, the impact of stadium's new security measures on ultra-fandom. Research contribution: The research contributes to a better understanding of the interdependence between a football club and its ultra-fandom in relation to the modernisation of football. Practical implications:: The paper underlines that the relationship between a football club and its ultra-fandom can be seen as strictly co-dependent but also interdependent, each side ultimately determining the existence of the other.