FC Nantes condemns pitch invasion by supporters after turbulent match

FC Nantes condemns pitch invasion by supporters after turbulent match

La Tribune Loire de la Beaujoire during Sunday

In a strongly worded statement released the day after the abandoned match against Toulouse, when supporters stormed the pitch, FC Nantes condemned the incidents that marred the game with the utmost severity.

The LFP has referred the abandoned match case to its disciplinary committee, which will deliberate during its meeting on May 27. FC Nantes responded by publishing a statement on its official website on Monday afternoon, expressing its indignation.

« While FC Nantes acknowledges the distress and frustration caused by an exceptionally challenging season and the club’s relegation, the values, history, and identity of the club cannot be trampled upon by such actions and behavior,» the statement read. « Anger and disappointment cannot justify the actions of hooded individuals invading the pitch at the Stade de la Beaujoire, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and tension. A football stadium must remain a popular, festive, and secure space for all.»

Call for unity and calm

The club extended its gratitude to the « vast majority of supporters » who remained calm despite the tense atmosphere, as well as to the security teams and authorities deployed throughout the evening. FC Nantes pledged to « fully cooperate with the authorities, the LFP, and state services to ensure full transparency regarding these events and to establish accountability. »

The statement concluded by urging supporters to « unite, remain calm, and show respect » to prepare for the upcoming season under the best possible conditions.