In a message published on social media Olympique Lyonnais condemned the “racist behaviour” of a group of its own fans in the away end at the Vélodrome on Sunday evening, during and following the abandonment of Les Gones’ clash against Marseille after coach Fabio Grosso was injured in an attack on Lyon’s team bus.
“Lyon absolutely condemns the unacceptable racist behaviour shown by certain individuals in the away end on Sunday,” read the message posted on X (formerly Twitter). “The club has asked for video footage to identify the perpetrators of any acts which are not only against the law, but are also against the values of the club.”
The violent incidents began before the match when Marseille supporters targeted the Lyon team bus, hurling stones, glass bottles, and various projectiles at it. As reinforced windows succumbed to repeated attacks, a paving stone struck Lyon’s coach, Fabio Grosso, in the eye area, causing injury and concussion.
Promptly after the incident, a crisis team was formed, including match officials, the LFP delegate, and representatives from both Marseille and Lyon. An hour later, a press conference was held, where Alexandre Letexier, the match referee, announced that Lyon did not wish to continue the game. Following the established league protocol and Lyon’s stance, the decision was made not to proceed with the match
Lyon’s Ultras known as Bad Gones were seen with French flags, and also used the opportunity to engage in racist and Islamophobic chants directed at Marseille’s own ultras, MTP, and South Winners. Other footage on social media also shows Lyon fans shouting racist slurs from an open door on the buses taking them to the Vélodrome – before several of the convoys were subsequently attacked by Marseille fans.
GFFN | George Boxall
