The President of OGC Nice, Jean-Pierre Rivère, has made the “difficult” decision to play the first day of Ligue 1 match on August 23 against Lens behind closed doors. This announcement comes as the limitation to 5,000 spectators has been extended until the end of October, following the increase in Covid-19 cases.
The decision to play behind closed doors was made “for health reasons and to avoid making distinctions among the numerous and loyal club subscribers,” the club explained in a statement. Initially, the club had chosen to select supporters wishing to attend the match at the Allianz Riviera (4,000 people once staff is deducted), but later reversed this decision and apologized.
On August 4, the club’s largest supporters’ group, Populaire Sud, announced that its stand would remain empty due to this selection among supporters.
A decision will be made in September regarding the next home match (Nice – Paris SG) on September 20.
