«Away Days with Jake Hanrahan,» a YouTube project that describes itself as an underground journalism outlet, has released a new documentary focusing on football hooligan culture in Kazakhstan’s Aktobe, a city largely unknown to many Western viewers.
Jake Hanrahan and Jonny Pickup visited Aktobe ahead of the city’s match against Almaty-based FC Kairat in September 2025. According to the presenters, it took several months of negotiations with 13 Sector — the city’s most active and dedicated football fan group, which typically refuses to speak to journalists.
The fan group known as 13 Sector was founded in Aktobe in August 2006. Its members originally gathered in 13th sector of the city’s Central Stadium and maintained independence from the football club. Although fans are now seated in Sectors 17 and 18 behind the goals, they have retained the name «13 Sector.»
According to a fan named Farkhat, football and its surrounding culture have long been part of life in the city, but it was young people who studied abroad who introduced the spirit of football hooliganism, including organized fights and ultras culture.
«All Kazakhs are related. We never fight with knives or bottles to kill someone — only with our fists. We don’t beat people when they’re down; we help them up and then go to a bar together. Our idea is simple: it’s much more fun to go to a football match, support your home club and fight fairly than to just drink in courtyards,» said a member of 13 Sector.
Football clubs typically try to distance themselves from hooligan groups due to reputational risks. In Aktobe, however, the situation is different.
According to the group, they have been developing the local fan culture for nearly 20 years and consider themselves pioneers in Kazakhstan. At times, they said, they have had to explain to police and other authorities that their activities are not linked to political opposition, religious extremism, or criminal behavior.
According to Asmir, a representative of the youth wing of Urpaq Ultras, football hooligan culture in Kazakhstan is still in its early stages, which is why ultras groups are often viewed negatively.
«People say we’re unemployed savages, but we’re developing football in Kazakhstan and creating a great atmosphere in stadiums. I’d like every match in the country to have the same atmosphere we have. Even though we sometimes engage in violent behavior, we’re still good people and we help each other,» he said.
