French football league match halted by pyrotechnics and pitch invasion

French football league match halted by pyrotechnics and pitch invasion

Nantes supporters in the Tribune Loire, 2019

The final Ligue 1 match between Nantes and Toulouse was halted after just 20 minutes of play. Supporters in the Tribune Loire section released smoke bombs onto the pitch and some invaded the field.

The 34th and final matchday clash between Nantes and Toulouse at the Stade de la Beaujoire turned chaotic after only 20 minutes. Supporters in the Tribune Loire section displayed banners expressing their discontent before launching smoke bombs onto the pitch. With over 100 riot police present, the security forces were positioned on the wrong side of the stadium when the disturbances erupted.

Referee Stéphanie Frappart immediately ordered both teams to retreat to the locker rooms. Only Vahid Halilhodzic, 74-year-old coach overseeing his final match before retirement, remained on the field to confront the intruders. Visibly angered and deeply affected by the unfolding events, he was restrained by stewards. Earlier in the match, he had been the sole recipient of support from the Brigade Loire, Nantes’ ultras group. Moved to tears, he had acknowledged the Tribune Loire supporters before the clashes intensified just minutes later.

Nantes players were even seen urging their families to leave the stadium. After nearly 10 minutes of clashes, riot police attempted to enter the Tribune Loire section but were repelled by masked leaders in violent confrontations. Seats were ripped from the stands and hurled at the CRS officers as stunned spectators looked on.

“Coach Vahid” returned to the edge of the pitch after several minutes and offered to speak to the supporters. “It’s too dangerous; they’re fighting each other,” he was warned. “What are they going to do?” the Nantes coach replied.

A crisis cell has been activated with representatives from the French Football League and public authorities. The match’s outcome remains uncertain, with indications pointing toward a definitive abandonment. As of 9:45 PM, play had not resumed.

Nantes
Toulouse