French football league chaos: nantes supporter leader condemns pitch invasion violence

Following the violent incidents that led authorities to halt the recent Ligue 1 match between FC Nantes and Toulouse, the spotlight now turns to potential disciplinary measures. Roland Menu, president of the “Allez Nantes Canaris” supporters’ club, speaks out against the disgraceful behavior that has no place in sportsmanship.

The final whistle never sounded at the FC Nantes stadium. Instead, the match was abandoned mid-play due to a wave of unacceptable conduct: pitch invasion, projectile throwing, and smoke bombs creating dangerous conditions. Roland Menu, a lifelong FC Nantes enthusiast of six decades, shares his heartbreak over these events that will inevitably bring severe penalties to his beloved club.

Do you align with coach Vahid Halilhodžić’s remarks and other supporters’ reactions describing these actions as “disgraceful” and “cowardly”?

Absolutely. These actions are both disgraceful and cowardly. Watching what unfolded last night broke my heart. While we’re all frustrated with the club’s current situation, storming the pitch crosses every line. We understand the consequences these individuals have inflicted upon our club, and we categorically reject such behavior. True supporters never resort to violence.

Were you anticipating such extreme actions from the ultras groups?

There were whispers about potential protests, but we expected them to occur after the final whistle, not during active play. The sheer scale and intensity of violence we witnessed exceeded all expectations. The passion turned toxic in an instant.

Coach Halilhodžić’s visible anger reflected the collective frustration. Did you share his sentiments?

Without question. His greatest wish was for everyone to return to their seats and resume the match. His reaction was completely justified – he wanted the game to continue. And to think this was his final match with the club… it’s heartbreaking.

What consequences do you foresee from this pitch invasion? The league’s decision won’t come until May 27th. Are you concerned about potential closed-door matches?

The immediate concern is matches played without spectators. This could mean two or three home games next August without our support behind the team. The worst-case scenario would be point deductions, which would cripple our season before it even begins.

This isn’t the first time such incidents have occurred. The National Rally has proposed dissolving the Loire Brigade, a group previously criticized by former Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. Is this an appropriate solution?

The Loire Brigade isn’t a supporters’ club – it’s a collection of individuals. While they contribute to stadium atmosphere, their actions last night crossed every boundary. Pitch invasion by any group, regardless of affiliation, cannot be tolerated. That’s not what supporting a team is about.

So you don’t consider them true supporters?

No. True fandom means supporting your team through both victories and defeats, always within the bounds of sportsmanship. Last night’s events had nothing to do with legitimate support.

With relegation to Ligue 2 confirmed, will you continue supporting FC Nantes next season?

Without hesitation. The good times and bad, poor management decisions and triumphant seasons – our love for FC Nantes remains constant. We’ve endured everything together and will continue to do so.