The Ligue 1 season officially kicks off tomorrow at 9 PM with the home game against AS Monaco at the Allianz Riviera. But OGC Nice supporters are starting the festivities a bit earlier with a giant clapping at the Promenade du Paillon at 2 PM.
“And you clap, clap, clap, it’s your way of loving…” A new season begins, and the people of Nice are counting on the support of their fans to enjoy a few Nights of Madness.
“Nice, Nice, Nice”… The shouts of the crowd are now synchronized with successive claps. The famous clapping, brought into vogue by Nice supporters in 2013, has since been adopted by several clubs in France. Olympique Lyonnais, for instance, has created a modified version with its “Ahou.” More than a mere cheer, clapping is unifying: its intensity and success rely on the collaboration of all spectators. This popular aspect fits perfectly with the Nice stands.
This practice has traveled far to establish itself in the capital of the Azure Coast. Originating from Turkish and Greek supporter groups, it first appeared at the Stade du Ray at the end of the 2012-2013 season. Since then, it has made its mark at the Allianz Riviera and has become almost a symbol, right after Mefi. At the outset of a promising season, it’s a meeting not to be missed on Saturday at 2 PM, at the water mirror of the Promenade du Paillon. Just like the great march to the Ray for the last match in the old gymnasium, the heart of the city dresses in red and black.
Everson, the former glory of the Eagles, will be present to lead this clapping and set the pace. He will be accompanied by other players who have left their mark on OGC Nice’s history, as well as by young players from the training center. Come in large numbers to support your team and give strength to the present players to become the Everson, Bravo, or Cobos of tomorrow.
Photo: Yannick Faraut.
