Rennes take PSG return match dispute to CNOSF over Parc des Princes venue | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, Stade Rennais took their case to the CNOSF on Friday, contesting the LFP’s order to play the return against PSG at the Parc des Princes after the first meeting was switched because the pitch there was unplayable.

The opening fixture had been scheduled at the Parc, but a fungus ruined the surface. Rennes hosted at Roazhon Park on 23 August and it finished 2-2.

Rennes then sought to keep the spring meeting in Rennes on the weekend of six March, the 23rd round of Ligue 1. On 28 August the LFP competitions commission rejected that, confirmed the inversion and fined PSG €150,000 for failing to provide a playable pitch on day one.

Rennes argue they were penalised after reorganising within four days to host PSG during the holiday period, believing this would not affect the return at Roazhon Park. They add that if PSG were fined for neglecting obligations, they should not be forced to travel to Paris in March.

They also dispute PSG’s claim of exceptional circumstances linked to this summer’s heatwave, saying such episodes should not automatically excuse hosting duties, and that PSG made little effort to find an alternative venue. Rennes further highlight a late February to early March run of away trips to OM, PSG and Le Mans, plus possible cup or Europa League ties.

The LFP says clubs must play the same number of home and away games, so reversing the return is logical. It notes Rennes could have refused the initial switch, which would have postponed the game. The CNOSF has one month to hear both sides before issuing an opinion the LFP may or may not follow.

Source: L'Équipe

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”