OGC Nice – AS Saint-Étienne: the prefecture strengthens security measures ahead of decisive playoff match

The second leg playoff match against AS Saint-Étienne will be held behind closed doors following the incidents of May 17. The prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes emphasizes a serious risk of public disorder and a context of persistent tensions between ultra groups. A prefectural order strictly regulates the circulation of OGC Nice supporters this Friday, May 29, 2026.

For the playoff match between OGC Nice and AS Saint-Étienne, the prefect will restrict access to the Allianz Riviera stadium and the club’s training center from Friday, May 29 at 12 noon to Saturday, May 30 at 2 a.m. While the match will be played behind closed doors, the order targets anyone claiming to be a supporter of OGC Nice or adopting associated behavior. The perimeter notably covers Boulevard des Jardiniers, Avenue Gustave-Eiffel, Avenue Pierre-de-Coubertin, Rue Jules-Bianchi, Avenue Simone-Veil as well as Boulevard Jean-Luciano and Chemin des Carriers around the training center.

The measure comes after a succession of serious incidents noted in the order: clashes between ultra groups, projectile throwing, pitch invasion against FC Metz on May 17, violence committed the day before the French Cup final, and assaults at the training center in November 2025.

Forbidden perimeter, police measures and mobilization of security forces

The Alpes-Maritimes prefecture also recalls the clashes of May 22 in Paris, the vandalism of May 17 in Nice and the violence of 2025 around the training center. The rivalry between Nice and Saint-Étienne supporters is described as persistent and marked by several episodes of tension since 2019.

The order also prohibits the possession and use of pyrotechnic devices, fuels, flammable or corrosive products, as well as any object that could serve as a projectile. Flags and banners of a provocative nature or calling for violence are also prohibited.

More than one hundred security forces including a mobile unit will be deployed around the stadium and training center. A command post is activated several hours before the match under the supervision of the prefect’s chief of staff. Prefect Laurent Hottiaux reminds that “sport will never be a pretext for committing violent acts” and announces immediate arrests in case of further vandalism.