RC Lens has officially banned its travelling supporters from attending Friday’s Ligue 1 Derby du Nord against Lille, citing dangerous conduct during their Champions League defeat at Club Brugge. The club stated that the behavior in Belgium “crossed a red line,” particularly after pyrotechnics caused direct injuries to disabled Lens fans and a matchday steward. This internal sanction follows a 3-0 loss on October 21, where crowd trouble included the lighting and throwing of flares as well as acts of damage within the stadium.
Club crosses red line as UEFA enforces away ticket ban following pyrotechnic injuries
The decision aligns with recent UEFA disciplinary actions that have barred the French side from selling away tickets for upcoming Champions League fixtures against RB Leipzig and Liverpool. Lens had previously warned its fanbase that they were operating under a suspended ban on European away ticket sales, a condition now fully enforced by the governing body. The club’s Wednesday statement emphasized the severity of the incident, highlighting that the physical harm to vulnerable supporters and staff necessitated immediate and decisive action to ensure safety at future domestic encounters.
This move significantly impacts the atmosphere for the highly anticipated northern rivalry, as Lens will face Lille without its traditional travelling contingent. The ban serves as a stark reminder of the zero-tolerance policy regarding stadium violence and pyrotechnics in European competition. With the suspended European ban now active, Lens must navigate the remainder of the season with heightened security protocols, while the club works to restore order and protect the safety of all attendees in both domestic and international matches.
Source: Yahoo Sports
