The atmosphere at Bollaert-Delelis was electric as Paris Saint-Germain officially secured their 14th French championship title against Lens. However, beyond the on-field action, a fierce battle of banners unfolded between the rival fan bases, adding a dramatic layer of provocation and defiance to the evening’s proceedings.
It was a moment of bittersweet irony for Lens supporters, who had seen their team maintain a strong challenge for the Ligue 1 title for much of the season, only for PSG to clinch the coveted trophy on their home turf. This heightened tension set the stage for the impassioned exchange of messages.
Approximately 1,000 Parisian supporters, positioned in their designated section, initiated the verbal sparring with a pointed banner: « Lens champion, fini d’y croire… retournez boire !!!! » (Lens champion, stop believing… go back to drinking!!!!). This direct taunt, aimed at the hopes of the Sang et Or faithful, quickly drew a sharp response from the northern club’s loyalists.
The Lens kop swiftly retaliated, directing their ire at the Collectif Ultras Paris (CUP) and the Qatari ownership of PSG. Their banner read: « Frustré de pas avoir d’alcool au Qatar ? CUP bâtard » (Frustrated about not having alcohol in Qatar? CUP bastard). This retort highlighted broader geopolitical and cultural points of contention, moving beyond mere sporting rivalry.
Throughout the match, Lens supporters also made their discontent known through additional banners, specifically targeting the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) and PSG’s president, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, further underscoring their grievances beyond the immediate rivalry.
