Nantes’ Ligue 1 match against Toulouse was abandoned after 22 minutes at Stade de la Beaujoire on Sunday after home supporters threw flares and invaded the pitch. Referee Stephanie Frappart stopped the game as players and officials left the field.
Nantes ultras in the Tribune Loire section threw smoke devices towards the pitch before breaking through barriers and security lines. Stewards lost control as groups moved onto the playing surface, forcing an immediate evacuation.
Both teams headed to the dressing rooms as riot police entered the stadium to contain the situation. Frappart later confirmed the decision to abandon the match after consultation with match officials and security authorities.
The game had started in a tense atmosphere following Nantes’ relegation earlier this month. The club had already dropped from Ligue 1 after a 1-0 defeat to Lens on 8 May, ending a 13-year stay in the top division.
Vahid Halilhodzic, back for a second spell in charge since March, tried to approach sections of supporters during the disruption. Staff restrained him as tensions escalated around the touchline area.
Clashes continued between groups of fans and police after players left the pitch, with reports of seats and objects thrown inside the stadium. The match delegate later confirmed the abandonment in a press briefing.
French sports minister Marina Ferrari called for action after the incident and urged sanctions against those involved. Authorities have not yet confirmed any arrests or disciplinary measures.
Nantes have struggled on the pitch throughout the season, winning five of their 34 league matches and scoring 29 goals. The club last played in Ligue 1 in 2009 before returning in 2013.
