The match, tied 0-0 at the 22nd minute, was halted when Nantes supporters stormed the field following a series of pyrotechnic explosions and object launches. Referee Stéphanie Frappart ordered both teams to return to the locker rooms, but Nantes coach Vahid Halilhodzic remained on the sidelines, visibly agitated as security struggled to restrain him from confronting the supporters who had closed in on him.

Authorities confirm definitive abandonment of the match

After nearly 40 minutes of deliberation, a crisis meeting involving the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) delegate Olivier Chovaux, Prefect of Loire-Atlantique, police representatives, and Frappart concluded that the match would not resume for safety reasons. The announcement, delivered during a press conference, was met with cheers from the Nantes ultras in attendance. The stadium was subsequently evacuated following further smoke bomb discharges.

«We all witnessed a pitch invasion alongside pyrotechnic activity and object throwing. This forced officials and both teams to retreat to the locker rooms,» stated the LFP delegate. «The match has been definitively abandoned by the Prefect for security concerns,» added Frappart, who had initially struggled to regain control of the situation.

Sports Minister condemns violent scenes

Sports Minister Marina Ferrari swiftly condemned the incidents: «The violence witnessed moments ago during the FC Nantes vs Toulouse FC match is unacceptable and has no place in sport or our Republic. I strongly condemn these actions and stand in solidarity with the players and supporters who attended peacefully. The prefect’s decision to abandon the match was necessary. Such behavior cannot be tolerated. I commend the rapid response of stewards and law enforcement. All parties must take responsibility to identify those responsible for these acts, who will face severe penalties.»