FC Nantes takes firm stance against pitch invasion by fans

FC Nantes takes firm stance against pitch invasion by fans

View of the Beaujoire stadium tribune during the Nantes vs Toulouse match
Beaujoire stadium tribune during the Nantes vs Toulouse match

A day after the abandoned Ligue 1 match against Toulouse following a pitch invasion by its supporters, FC Nantes issued a strongly worded statement condemning the incidents surrounding the game.

The club, now relegated to Ligue 2, expressed its outrage in an official statement published on Monday afternoon, as the French Football League (LFP) has placed the abandoned match dossier under review and will rule on it during its meeting on May 27.

«While FC Nantes acknowledges the deep distress and frustration stemming from an exceptionally challenging season and subsequent relegation, the club’s values, history, and identity cannot be tarnished by such acts and behaviors,» the statement read. «Anger and disappointment cannot justify masked individuals storming the pitch at the Beaujoire stadium, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and tension. A football stadium must remain a popular, festive, and safe space for all.»

Nantes calls for unity, calm, and respect

The club extended its gratitude to the «numerous supporters who maintained their composure despite the circumstances» and to the security teams and authorities present throughout the evening. FC Nantes also pledged to «fully cooperate with the authorities, the LFP, and state services to ensure full transparency and accountability for the events that transpired.» The club concluded by urging «unity, calm, and respect to prepare for the upcoming season under the best possible conditions.»