El Banderazo

For Boca fans, supporting their club begins far before kickoff, and this unique tradition showcases community far beyond the game

By Where Is Football

June 23^rd, 2025

One thing the Club World Cup has reminded us of is the enormity of support demonstrated by South American fans. Boca Juniors have risen to the occasion, partly due to their international fanbase continuing to make every game feel like a home game.

One aspect of fandom that has captivated viewers is “El Banderazo”; a prematch gathering of fans to celebrate and showcase their passion. These fan rallies capture the environment of the famous stadium; La Bombonera, and bring it with them wherever they travel.

Our friend Nico Polo was lucky enough to attend the recent gathering in Miami Beach. We caught up with him to discuss the experience.

Boca Juniors and the Banderazo. I spent six hours documenting this sacred ritual. The emotion was overwhelming, I’ve never seen a group so fierce in their devotion to football… or to anything, really.

For those unfamiliar, a banderazo is more than a gathering, it’s a movement. In the days leading up to a big match, fans flood the streets (in this case the beach) outside the stadium, waving flags (banderas), chanting, and igniting the night with their relentless support.