This evening, the Allianz Riviera is hosting the Europa League match between OGC Nice and AS Roma. Authorities have deployed a significant security presence to prevent any disturbances. Already the day before, over a hundred Roman supporters were arrested in the city center.
The match between OGC Nice and AS Roma is scheduled as part of the first group stage day of the Europa League. The atmosphere is tense. From Tuesday afternoon, groups of Roman supporters gathered in the city center. More than 200 police officers and gendarmes were mobilized to prevent any incidents. Their intervention led to the arrest of 102 individuals identified as ultras. Several of them were carrying weapons or objects that could be used as projectiles. They have been placed in custody. The Nice prosecutor will decide on the judicial proceedings.
According to the prefecture, the rapid action of the security forces prevented physical violence and damage. All discovered weapons were confiscated. The operation also helped to create a deterrent atmosphere for Wednesday evening.
Strict measures around the stadium and in the city
For the evening of the match, which kicks off at 9 PM at the Allianz Riviera stadium, the security presence is even more extensive. More than 400 law enforcement personnel, both in uniform and plainclothes, will be distributed between the city center and the stadium’s surroundings. Inside the venue, spectators will undergo enhanced checks with pat-downs. OGC Nice is deploying its stewards to supplement the police presence. Teams of firefighters are also positioned at various strategic points.
Several prefectural orders are in place for the evening. They aim to limit the risks of confrontation and incidents. In several areas of Nice, circulation and parking are prohibited. Other measures specifically target Roman supporters: they are banned from entering the city center, stations, the airport, and the stadium surrounds from Tuesday afternoon until Thursday noon.
The use of fireworks, smoke bombs, or transporting flammable products is prohibited. These restrictions apply to the entire territory of the commune of Nice, in Albert I garden, and on the A8 motorway between Menton and Nice Saint-Augustin.
Finally, alcohol is under surveillance. Consumption in public areas is banned from mid-afternoon. Takeaway sales are restricted, as is the non-commercial transportation of alcoholic beverages. Night establishments must close at 2 AM, earlier than usual.
Supervised movements and strengthened transport
The Allianz Riviera stadium will open its doors three hours before the kick-off, from 6 PM. Authorities recommend the public arrive early to facilitate entry. Nice spectators are encouraged to use public transport. Free shuttles will connect the MIN/Arboras parking to the stadium. The tramway line 3 also serves the venue. Bus line 49 remains available for residents and supporters.
The movement of Roman tifosi is tightly controlled. Only those with a ticket can approach the stadium. They must first present themselves at Albert I garden. From there, they are escorted by bus with police escort to the Allianz Riviera. The return will follow the same protocol.
The prefect of Alpes-Maritimes, Laurent Hottiaux, will be present at the stadium to oversee the security measures. Law enforcement aims to prevent any incidents while ensuring the smooth running of the match.
On X, the mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, reacted this morning to the situation regarding the Italian supporters by stating that he had “asked the Prefect of Alpes-Maritimes on Friday to ban their travel: unfortunately, the facts have proven me right.”
