Olympique de Marseille supporters have been banned from traveling to Lyon this Sunday due to concerns about potential violence between fans and law enforcement, the French Interior Ministry announced on Thursday. This decision comes ahead of the Ligue 1 fixture between Marseille and Olympique Lyonnais, with no Marseille fans allowed in the away section.
The ministry explained the decision was based on a history of violent behavior involving both Lyon and Marseille supporters. Previous incidents have seen clashes with law enforcement, as well as the use of firecrackers, smoke bombs, and explosives, resulting in injuries and property damage.
According to the decree, any movement by individuals identifying as Marseille supporters, or acting as such, is prohibited from traveling between the municipalities of the Bouches-du-Rhone department and those of Decines-Charpieu, Meyzieu, and Lyon (Rhone) from midnight Sunday to midnight Monday.
The ministry also highlighted that this measure was influenced by the strain on security forces due to preparations for the Olympic Games, ongoing protests related to unrest in the Middle East, and increased terrorist threats.
Last December, Lyon fans were similarly banned from attending a Ligue 1 match in Marseille. The rivalry between these clubs has led to multiple violent incidents, including arrests and stadium bans throughout last season.
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