Chelsea fans travelling to Italy have been urged to take “extreme caution” in Naples after two supporters were treated in hospital following an incident in the city.
The warning came on Tuesday evening, less than 24 hours before Chelsea face Napoli in a crucial Champions League group match at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.
The club confirmed the incident through its official channels, saying the injuries were not life-threatening.
Around 2,500 Chelsea fans are expected in Naples for Wednesday night’s fixture, which carries major qualification stakes for both teams.
What happened to Chelsea fans in Naples?
Chelsea confirmed that an incident involving supporters took place in Naples on Tuesday evening.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the club said: “The club is aware of an incident that took place on Tuesday evening in Naples. Two fans are being treated in hospital, having sustained non-life-threatening injuries.”
🚨🚨| OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM CHELSEA:
“The club is aware of an incident that took place on Tuesday evening in Naples.
Two fans are being treated in the hospital, having sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The club would like to remind all supporters to exercise extreme… pic.twitter.com/jVDyLoer5H
— Goals Side (@goalsside) January 28, 2026
The club did not provide further details about how or where the incident occurred, and local Italian authorities have not yet released a public statement.
Why are Chelsea warning fans to take ‘extreme caution’?
Chelsea’s warning links back to long-standing safety concerns for away supporters in Naples during European matches.
Earlier this month, the club issued travel guidance reminding Chelsea fans that: “During UEFA competition matches, attacks on away fans have sometimes occurred in Naples.”
As a precaution, Chelsea and local organisers have arranged a shuttle bus service for travelling supporters. The service is designed to move fans safely between key locations and the stadium, reducing the risk of confrontations.
How many Chelsea fans are in Naples for the match?
Around 2,500 Chelsea fans have travelled to Naples for the Champions League group-stage match. The game takes place on Wednesday night at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, Napoli’s home ground.
Large travelling crowds often increase pressure on local policing and transport systems, which is why clubs issue specific safety advice ahead of high-risk European fixtures.
What is at stake in the Napoli vs Chelsea Champions League match?
The match carries major sporting consequences.
- Chelsea is pushing for a top-eight finish in the Champions League group phase.
- Finishing in the top eight would secure automatic qualification for the last 16, avoiding a play-off round next month.
- Napoli, meanwhile, sit outside the qualification places in 25th, making this a must-win game for the Italian side.
The high stakes on the pitch often heighten tensions off it, particularly in cities with a history of hostile atmospheres for away fans.
What advice should Chelsea fans follow while in Naples?
Chelsea have reminded supporters to follow all previously issued travel and safety guidance, including:
- Staying in groups where possible
- Using official shuttle transport
- Avoiding confrontations and flashpoint areas
- Following instructions from local police and stewards
Fans are also advised to keep an eye on official club updates through verified channels.
Have similar incidents happened before?
Naples has a reputation for intense football atmospheres, especially during European nights. In past UEFA competitions, several clubs have issued warnings to supporters travelling to the city.
UK police and football safety groups often classify certain European away fixtures as “higher risk”, prompting extra coordination between clubs, local authorities and UEFA.
