The Nice local authorities have banned FC Basel fans from the city centre, whilst entry into the Allianz Riviera for their UEFA Europa Conference League tie against OGC Nice will also be complicated.
Last week, the mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, called on the local authorities to act in order to prevent Basel fans from making the trip for Thursday’s match. His wish has now been granted. It was announced on Monday that, whilst hundreds of Basel fans are already en route to the Riviera, they will not be allowed to travel or park in a large perimeter, which encompasses almost the entire city centre.
L’Équipe have added that Basel fans will also be denied entry to the Allianz Riviera from certain access points, further complicating the Swiss fans’ attendance for the match, which is evenly poised after a 2-2 draw in the first leg.
There has already been violence at Nice’s home stadium during this Europa Conference League campaign. The kick-off of Nice’s match against FC Köln was delayed after fights broke out between the opposing sets of fans. Some supporters involved in the violence were hospitalised, with the game almost cancelled.
Basel fans have also been involved in violence during another visit to France. They were involved in a brawl last year during Basel’s Conference League round of 16 clash against Olympique de Marseille.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
