Nice handed two full stadium closures after fan disturbances at Allianz Riviera

Following fan-related incidents during Sunday’s Ligue 1 clash against Metz, the French Football League’s disciplinary body has imposed severe sanctions on OGC Nice. The club will face two matches behind closed doors and one suspended closure, affecting both domestic and playoff fixtures.

The disciplinary commission cited multiple infractions during the final league game of the season, including the use and throwing of pyrotechnic devices, pitch invasions, and ground damage at the final whistle. These actions have triggered the harshest possible penalties under current regulations.

As a direct consequence, Nice’s crucial Ligue 1 relegation playoff rematch against AS Saint-Étienne on May 29 will take place without spectators. The club has already lodged an appeal to contest the decision, hoping to secure the right to welcome fans for the decisive match. Notably, forward Elye Wahi will miss the away leg in Saint-Étienne on May 26 due to suspension.

Additional sanctions handed down

A mandatory one-match suspension applies after a fifth booking or revocation of probation to: Benjamin Andre (Lille), Mahdi Camara (Stade Rennais FC), Christian Mawissa (AS Monaco), and Elye Wahi (OGC Nice).

Paris Saint-Germain also received a penalty, with the closure of the Auteuil stand at Parc des Princes enforced for pyrotechnic use and visual displays during the club’s first home Ligue 1 fixture of the 2026-27 season.

The case involving FC Nantes, following a pitch invasion during their early-season game against Toulouse, remains under review and will be addressed in due course.