A crucial security meeting took place this Thursday afternoon at Lyon Prefecture. The gathering brought together key stakeholders to finalize security protocols and ensure seamless coordination ahead of the high-stakes Champions League playoff rematch between Lyon and Fenerbahçe scheduled for August 26.

Authorities are particularly concerned about potential clashes between ultras groups during the event. The match has been classified as high-risk due to several factors: a significant Turkish diaspora in Lyon, the expected large turnout of visiting Turkish supporters, and the troubled history between the clubs.

Tensions have flared in past encounters. In April 2017, during the Europa League quarter-final first leg between Lyon and Beşiktaş (2-1), disturbances erupted before kickoff when projectiles were exchanged between rival supporters in the northern stand, requiring heavy police intervention to control the crowd. More recently, in October 2024, Beşiktaş fans returned to Décines-Charpieu for a group-stage match (0-1) with no qualification stakes at play. The game was classified as very high-risk, with only 30,000 spectators allowed due to strict security measures.

Strict ticketing controls to prevent unauthorized attendance

Upon learning of the playoff draw last week, Lyon has been proactively managing its ticketing strategy to minimize the presence of unaccompanied Turkish spectators. Starting late Thursday morning, the club will open its online ticket sales exclusively to season ticket holders, with prices starting at €12 per ticket. Each season ticket holder will be limited to purchasing up to four tickets for the August 26 match.

The club has made it clear to all 26,000 season ticket holders that reselling tickets is strictly prohibited. They emphasized that holders bear full legal responsibility if someone using a ticket purchased through their account engages in misconduct or illegal behavior within Groupama Stadium. Violations could result in the revocation of season tickets without refund.

After the initial sale to season ticket holders, Lyon will extend ticket sales to regular supporters based on club records, beginning next Monday. This phased approach aims to prevent those who recently purchased tickets for Lyon’s Champions League third qualifying round rematch against Sparta Prague (3-0) from gaining access to the stands.