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Nice-Saint-Étienne: Nice Supporters Banned Near Allianz Riviera Amid Fears of Disorder

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Nice supporters are banned from the vicinity of the Allianz Riviera stadium for the crucial match against Saint-Étienne.
  • Prefectural orders restrict movement and prohibit pyrotechnics and provocative banners due to fears of public disorder.
  • The decision stems from a history of violent clashes between supporters of both clubs and recent incidents involving Nice fans.

Authorities have implemented strict measures to prevent potential disturbances surrounding the OGC Nice vs. Saint-Étienne match, with Nice supporters banned from areas near the Allianz Riviera stadium. The prefectural order, signed Wednesday, aims to curb anticipated overflows of disorder, particularly if OGC Nice faces relegation to Ligue 2.

The presence on public roads, around the stadium and training center, of individuals claiming the status of OGC Nice club supporter or known as such, carries serious risks for the safety of people and property.

— Prefect Laurent HottiauxJustifying the restrictions on Nice supporters.

The return leg at the Allianz Riviera will be played behind closed doors. Additionally, a prefectural decree issued Wednesday restricts the freedom of movement for OGC Nice supporters within the city of Nice. "The presence on public roads, around the stadium and training center, of individuals claiming the status of OGC Nice club supporter or known as such, carries serious risks for the safety of people and property," stated Prefect Laurent Hottiaux.

From Friday noon until Saturday 2 a.m., supporters will be barred from streets adjacent to the stadium and training facilities. Prohibited items in these zones include pyrotechnics, fuels, corrosive or flammable products, and any flags or banners with provocative inscriptions. Objects that could be used as projectiles are also banned.

likely to cause serious public order disturbances

— PrefectDescribing the potential impact of the football match.

The prefect cited the match as "likely to cause serious public order disturbances." This decision is informed by past altercations between the clubs and a "permanent and violent rivalry between ultra supporters for several years." Incidents mentioned include a brawl in December 2019, the expulsion of Nice supporters during an away game in September 2021, and an attempt by Nice ultras to confront Saint-Étienne supporters on the highway in September 2024. The prefecture also recalled the pitch invasion by disgruntled Nice supporters after a recent match, which led to property damage and confrontations with law enforcement.

permanent and violent rivalry between ultra supporters for several years

— PrefectExplaining the historical context of tensions between the clubs' fan bases.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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