Palermo Skaters Under Attack: A New Skatepark Exists But Unsafe, Isolated & Ignored by the City

This is a call for help from skaters who feel forgotten and overlooked.

For decades, Palermo has had no skatepark. Over the last thirty years, many generations of talented skaters have been lost simply because there was nowhere safe to practice, and no support from local authorities.

Skateboarding in Palermo has been limited to streets, empty lots, and abandoned areas, which is not enough for a community full of young skaters who want to grow and improve.

Finally, there is a new skatepark in Palermo. But since 2024, skaters have been raising concerns with the city council about its location.

The park is in a part of the city that is unsafe, far away from where most skaters live, and difficult to reach because of traffic, poor public transport, and no subway connections.

For young skaters who go to school and do not have parents who can take them there, visiting the park is almost impossible.

Many feel it is out of reach and not suitable for the community it is meant to serve.

A few days ago, the good homies at SAD! and some friends went to check out the new park, which is still closed.

Unfortunately, their fears were confirmed in the worst way.

A group of seven locals attacked them. The skaters were physically assaulted, and SAD! ended up with a broken nose. A girl in their group was punched in the chest, and two others were hurt as well.

This group, coming from the area of the new park, behaved aggressively to mark the territory, showing that they were in charge. SAD! describes their mentality as criminal and influenced by mafia culture.

The attack is just one example of why the location of the park is a serious problem. It is not only isolated and hard to access, but it also exposes skaters to real danger. The skaters feel abandoned because the city council and the mayor have shown little interest in addressing these issues.

In other countries, skateparks are supported by major companies and professional skaters who help young skaters grow. Palermo skaters are asking for help from the global skateboarding community.

They want videos, support, and attention from professional skaters and companies to help create a new skatepark in a safer, more accessible location.

Without this support, Palermo risks losing another generation of skaters who may never have a proper place to skate safely.

The skaters are asking for solidarity.

They want someone to hear them, to see their struggles, and to help Palermo get a skatepark that the entire community can enjoy without fear.

Until then, the city’s youth and their passion for skateboarding remain at risk, while the current park sits empty in a dangerous, isolated location.