Steaua Bucharest supporters protest Ministry of Defense over club promotion

Supporters of Steaua Bucharest staged protests in Bucharest’s University Square and other Romanian cities, displaying banners that read “Armata ne minte” (the army lies). Around 20 ultras from the Peluza Sud group gathered, after police arrived some fled. The fans allege that the Ministry of Defense blocks the club’s promotion to the top league, keeping Steaua in Liga 2.

The protest also includes a petition sent by roughly 1,000 supporters to the ministry, demanding explanations for the long‑standing denial of promotion and citing financial losses. Former national team coach Victor Pițurcă has publicly criticized the ministry, echoing the fans’ claims. The unrest follows Steaua’s recent 2‑1 defeat to CSM Slatina, which intensified frustrations over the club’s stalled ascent.