Ajax’s F-Side marks 50th anniversary with fireworks across Amsterdam

Ajax supporter group the F-Side celebrated its 50th anniversary on Saturday with large fireworks displays at three sites across Amsterdam. Supporters also sang club songs as they marked five decades since the group was established.

The gatherings took place outside the Olympic Stadium and the Johan Cruijff ArenA, as well as on Middenweg, where Ajax’s former De Meer stadium once stood. Each location has played a part in the group’s history and its presence around the club.

The F-Side was founded on 3 October 1976, during Ajax’s match against VVV at De Meer. It emerged on the Diemenzijde terrace in Section F, with its name influenced by the British hooligan scene, according to Voetbalzone.

Initially a small group, the F-Side expanded and became a prominent source of atmosphere at De Meer. It was also present at the Olympic Stadium, which Ajax used for European fixtures and high-risk matches. After Ajax moved to the Johan Cruijff ArenA in 1996, the group continued its role there. Saturday’s coordinated celebrations therefore connected the F-Side’s origins, its years at the Olympic Stadium and its modern home in one city-wide anniversary event.