The Milan Derby: History of the AC Milan-Inter Milan Rivalry

Here's how a rule change led to the birth of the fiercest Italian football derby.

The rivalry between AC Milan and Inter Milan dates back over 100 years. AC Milan was founded by Herbert Kilpin in 1899. He was a textile worker from the UK working in Milan who was passionate about football. As the popularity of football and competition between the clubs grew, Italy saw an influx of foreign players. 

To counter this, the Italian Football Federation came up with a rule that prevented clubs from signing any foreign players. This caused a rift within AC Milan. Those in favour of the rule stayed with the club. 

Those who were against it and considered the rule anti-competitive decided to break away. A new club was formed in 1908 that would accept more foreign players. With the idea of being an international club, it was named Internazionale, or Inter Milan. 

The rivalry, which started as a result of differences in ideologies, is now mainly based on personal preferences and family history. But one thing never changed. Ferocity!