Arsenal F.C. supporters Arsenal F.C. supporters London based Arsenal Football Club has developed a strong following since its founding in 1886. Arsenal's fans are often referred to as Gooners, the name derived from the team's nickname, the "Gunners". Many fanzines, blogs, podcasts and fans websites have been dedicated to the club and the fans have long-standing rivalries with several other clubs; the most notable of these is with neighbours Tottenham Hotspur, with whom they regularly contest the North London derby. The club and the fans have regularly featured in portrayals of football in British culture. Gunners come from far and wide, a 2005
Supporters' groups affiliated club, recognised on the club's website and holds meetings at the stadium. In England and Wales nearly all official supporter groups are affiliated with the Football Supporters' Federation. Also In England and Wales only, Supporters Direct are an umbrella organisation promoting fan-ownership. There are also numerous hooligan firms in Britain, also known as casuals in itself a style of support and sub-culture, stemming largely from the fact that Britain is the birthplace of the phenomenon of football hooliganism. In the Republic of Ireland the supporters embrace a mixture of both ultra and casual styles. The major supporters' group for