The violent incidents that led to the premature ending of the FC Nantes versus Toulouse Ligue 1 match on May 17 have reignited debates over supporter behavior and sporting ethics in French football.

The chaotic scenes included pitch invasions, projectile throwing, and the use of smoke flares, forcing match officials to abandon the game before full-time. Roland Menu, president of the ‘Allez Nantes Canaris’ supporters’ club and a lifelong FC Nantes fan, has spoken out against the actions of a small group whose behavior he brands as cowardly and shameful.

Unacceptable behavior from so-called supporters

Do you share the views expressed by Coach Vahid Halilhodžić and other fans on social media, who have described the culprits as “shameful” and “cowardly”?

Absolutely. This was a disgrace. As a FC Nantes supporter for over 60 years, I am deeply saddened by what happened. While we all feel frustration with the team’s current situation, nothing justifies invading the pitch or resorting to violence. Such actions only bring severe consequences for the club we love.

No place for violence in football

Did you expect such a violent outburst during the match?

We had heard rumors of possible protests, but we assumed they would happen after the final whistle—not mid-match, and certainly not on this scale. The level of aggression displayed was shocking even to seasoned supporters like myself.

Coach Halilhodžić was visibly distressed. Do you relate to his frustration?

Without a doubt. His plea to the crowd to return to the stands so the match could continue resonated with every true fan. After all, he was saying goodbye to the club. The timing made it even more heartbreaking.

What sanctions could FC Nantes face?

The French Football League is expected to announce its decision on May 27. We fear potential stadium closures—meaning games behind closed doors next season. That would rob us of the chance to cheer on our team from the stands. We also hope the club avoids point deductions, which would cripple our chances from the start of the season.

Such penalties are not unfamiliar in football. Four years ago, AS Saint-Étienne faced similar sanctions following a pitch invasion. Meanwhile, political figures have already called for the dissolution of the ‘Brigade Loire’, a controversial supporters’ faction. Do you believe that’s the right solution?

The Brigade Loire isn’t a supporters’ club—it’s a group of individuals who bring both atmosphere and trouble to the stadium. While we appreciate their passion, we reject their methods. What happened on Sunday was not support; it was criminal behavior.

True support means standing by the team

So you don’t consider them real supporters?

No. True support means encouraging the team through every high and low. It does not mean violence, intimidation, or reckless acts that harm the club.

Despite this scandal, are you still committed to supporting FC Nantes next season—even if it means watching from Ligue 2?

Without question. We’ve endured promotions and relegations, good and bad management—it’s all part of the journey. What matters is the club itself. We will be there, cheering on our Canaris, no matter what.