Cairo's Ultras

Cairo's Ultras: Resistance and Revolution in Egypt's Football Culture by Ronnie Close is a thought-provoking exploration of football culture in Egypt through its ultras groups. The history of Cairo's football fans is deeply intertwined with the 2011 Egyptian uprising, as the Ultras Al-Ahly and White Knights became embroiled in the street protests that brought down the Mubarak regime. The book delves into the social movements of the Cairo Ultras, tracing their role in the uprising and examining the political dimension of soccer in Egypt. Close reveals how football communities offer ways of belonging and instill meaning in everyday life, challenging common labels like 'fans' or 'hooligans'. By focusing on the body's role in cultural practices, he sheds light on the significance of stadium rituals and chants in resonating with Egyptians. This insightful study skews media clichés to consider the capacity of sport to emancipate through performances on the football terraces. With 233 pages, this hardcover book is a valuable resource for understanding the complex relationships between sport, culture, and politics in Egypt.