Marseille and Auxerre sanctioned with partial stadium closures
Olympique de Marseille and AJ Auxerre have been sanctioned with partial stadium closures by the French Professional Football League (LFP) following incidents involving their supporters. Marseille will see the north stand of the Orange Vélodrome closed for two matches, one of which activates a suspended sentence, due to what the league described as the "massive use of pyrotechnic devices" by fans. Auxerre, embroiled in a relegation battle, faces a partial closure of the OAH stand at the Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps until May 30, 2026.
These disciplinary measures, officially handed down by the LFP's "Pitch Police," come as French authorities continue a strict crackdown on fan behavior in stadiums. The sanctions highlight the ongoing challenges clubs face in managing supporter conduct, with pyrotechnics remaining a persistent issue despite repeated warnings and fines. For Marseille, the punishment adds to a turbulent season both on and off the pitch, where consistency has been elusive.
The context for Auxerre is particularly acute, as the club fights to retain its place in Ligue 1. Playing key home matches without the full support of their crowd could impact the atmosphere and potentially hinder their survival bid. The lengthy duration of Auxerre's stand closure, extending over two years, serves as a significant deterrent for future infringements.
In a separate disciplinary note from the same round of matches, Saint-Étienne's Augustine Boakye received a yellow card during his side's defeat to Bastia. The sanctions against Marseille and Auxerre are the latest in a series of measures taken by the LFP this season, aiming to enforce safety protocols and curb the use of prohibited items in French football grounds. The league's firm stance indicates that points deductions or more severe closures could follow for any repeat offenses by clubs across the division.
