French authorities have prohibited Olympiacos supporters from attending Thursday’s UEFA Europa League match against Marseille at the Stade Vélodrome, a decision the Greek club described as unacceptably delayed.
The Prefecture of Bouches-du-Rhône issued the ban citing public order and security risks. The fixture was rated at the highest danger level (5/5) by France’s national anti-hooliganism unit. Officials pointed to potential clashes involving identified hooligan elements among the travelling support, known ultras rivalries—including links between Marseille groups and AEK Athens—and concurrent student protests in the city. The order also covers Red Star Belgrade fans and bars access to the stadium plus movement in several central Marseille districts from Wednesday morning until early Friday.
Olympiacos said it had cooperated fully with Marseille, UEFA and local police throughout the previous month, with no suggestion of a full ban ever raised. The club learned of the intention only the day before the official order and immediately protested to UEFA and the hosts. UEFA also contacted the French authorities, but the decision stood.
“We condemn the delay with which they condemn our fans to expenses and inconvenience,” the club stated, noting that supporters had already bought tickets and some were already travelling or in Marseille. Approximately 3,500 Greek fans had been expected. Olympiacos has begun cancelling tickets and will refund purchasers.
The club referenced a similar last-minute French ban on Sevilla fans for a 2023 Champions League tie at Lens, which was later suspended by a court—though it noted there is now no time for such an appeal. It has formally asked UEFA to examine compensation for affected supporters and protection for those already in France.
Bill Giannopoulos
Junior Editor
Bill Giannopoulos is a Junior Editor at Greek City Times, covering Greek and international news, sport, and history.