Prefect bans OGC Nice supporters from zones around stadium and training base | OneFootball

OGC Nice’s play-off second leg against Saint-Étienne will be behind closed doors on Friday at 20:45, and fans face sweeping restrictions. According to L'Équipe, the Alpes-Maritimes prefect has ordered that anyone declaring or appearing to be an OGC Nice supporter is barred from zones around the Allianz Riviera and the training centre.

Supporters, already excluded from the stands for two matches after trouble against Metz, will be kept away from the stadium approaches and nearby venues. Signed on Wednesday by Laurent Hottiaux, the order runs from Friday midday to the night from Friday to Saturday and covers behaviour that signals support, including shirts or chants.

Authorities say the presence of supporters on the public highway poses a real and serious risk to public order. Pyrotechnics, fuels, inflammable products, provocative banners and objects that could be used as projectiles are also banned.

The decision cites repeated incidents involving Nice ultras, including attempted clashes with Saint-Étienne fans in 2024, a pitch invasion against Metz 10 days ago, and violence around the Coupe de France final that led to 65 people in custody.

The prefecture invokes the Vigipirate plan at “urgence attentat” level and limits on mobile units, with the tie rated level 4 by the national anti-hooliganism division. Access is restricted on routes including boulevard des jardiniers, rue Pancho Gonzalez and the A8 “la Provençale”. The first leg finished 0-0 on Tuesday, and Friday’s return will be played in an empty Allianz Riviera.

Source: L'Équipe