English Reference

Word

tifo

Definition

n. a large, colourful display of flags, signs, or banners made by sports fans in a stadium. It is usually done to show support for their team or to celebrate a big game.

n. a coordinated visual display organised by supporters within a stadium, typically involving banners, flags, or placards. Often used to express club identity or political messages during association football matches.

Examples

“The fans created a beautiful tifo before the match started.”

“The home supporters spent weeks preparing a massive tifo that covered the entire north stand for the local derby.”

“While some clubs provide materials for stadium-wide displays, the most authentic tifos are those designed and funded independently by ultra groups to demonstrate their unwavering loyalty.”

Examples

simple

“The fans created a beautiful tifo before the match started.”

contextual

“The home supporters spent weeks preparing a massive tifo that covered the entire north stand for the local derby.”

complex

“While some clubs provide materials for stadium-wide displays, the most authentic tifos are those designed and funded independently by ultra groups to demonstrate their unwavering loyalty.”

Usage

Countable when referring to a specific display; uncountable when referring to the general culture of fan displays.

Real-World Examples

“The 1878s, the group of volunteers responsible for the impressive tifos and banners at the stadium, has withdrawn its support for the foreseeable future.”
The Guardian · 2 Sept 2026
“Red Star Belgrade fans unveiled a tifo honouring Ratko Mladic at the Belgrade derby with Partizan.”
Al Jazeera · 7 Sept 2026

This entry

Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/tifo

English Reference