At 10 PM, a crucial press conference confirmed the permanent suspension of the Ligue 1 match between Nantes and Toulouse at the Stade de la Beaujoire. This decision came after a crisis meeting involving representatives from both clubs, the Prefect of Loire-Atlantique, a police official, LFP delegate Olivier Chovaux, and match referee Stéphanie Frappart.
“As we all observed, there was a pitch invasion by supporters, accompanied by pyrotechnic displays and the throwing of various objects. This led to the officials and both teams retreating to their changing rooms,” stated the League delegate. Referee Frappart, approximately 40 minutes after the initial stoppage, declared, “The Prefect has decided to permanently halt the match for security reasons.” This announcement was met with cheers from Nantes ultras, and the stadium was subsequently evacuated following further flare deployments.
marina ferrari issues strong condemnation of incidents
The incident unfolded in the 22nd minute with the score tied at 0-0. Nantes supporters stormed the pitch after launching flares and other projectiles, prompting Referee Frappart to instruct both teams to return to the changing rooms. Notably, Nantes coach Vahid Halilhodzic proved difficult to persuade, remaining on the sidelines and confronting the approaching fans, restrained only by security personnel. After several tense minutes, the Nantes supporters eventually returned to their stands, which were then secured by a significant police presence (CRS). This unfortunate event means Nantes, currently 17th and second-to-last in the league, will be relegated to Ligue 2 next season.
Following the events, Sports Minister Marina Ferrari strongly condemned the disturbances: “The violent scenes witnessed minutes ago during the FC Nantes – Toulouse FC match are utterly unacceptable and have no place in sport or our Republic. I unequivocally condemn these actions and extend my support to the players and the peaceful supporters who attended. The Prefect’s decision to permanently suspend the game was absolutely necessary. We cannot tolerate such incidents. I commend the swift response of stadium security and law enforcement. Everyone involved must take responsibility to identify those who perpetrated these acts of violence, and they must face the most severe penalties.”