RC Lens closes access to supporters for the North Derby in Lille
While the LOSC stadium prepares to host the North derby, the stands remain empty; the Blood and Gold supporters of RC Lens will not be able to travel to Lille on Friday evening at 20:45, following the decision of their club.
Club decision
The club, represented by Nicolas Pelletier and Jean Bommel, clarified, on the club's decision, that the sanction comes from the club and not from the authorities. RC Lens informed its supporter groups this morning, via an email signed by Arnaud Goubelle, supporter liaison. In that message, he states that the visitors' area will be closed in Lille this weekend and that no tickets will be offered for the derby.
Context of the incidents
The decision follows the actions of a part of the Lens fanbase in Bruges, during the Champions League match. These events were not appreciated by UEFA nor by the management of the Arles club, which deemed the reaction necessary. This week, RC Lens will also have to appear before the LFP disciplinary commission for the disturbances that occurred in Troyes, where supporters set off flares. The club is also preparing to be heard by UEFA regarding the Bruges incidents.
No RC Lens supporter will be present in Lille on Friday at 20:45, leaving the North fanbase completely empty. The club has therefore chosen not to sell derby tickets, further reinforcing the closure of the visitors' area.
Lens ban fans from Lille derby after flare chaos in Belgium
French authorities have considered, according to RMC information, a travel ban for supporters because of the security context in France. However, the final decision was taken by the club before any official measures by the public authorities.
RC Lens, currently seventh in Ligue 1 after its stunning victory over Paris FC on Saturday evening, will face LOSC without the support of its fan base. This absence could influence the atmosphere of the match, traditionally very lively during the North derby.
By acting this way, the club shows a firmness that could serve as a model for other teams facing supporter disturbances. The measure underlines the importance placed on safety and the reputation of French football on the European stage.