Ajax supporters who decide to travel to France for the Europa League match against Olympique Marseille run the risk of prison sentences and fines. An emergency law has been introduced by the French government to prevent Ajax fans from gaining access to the Stade Vélodrome on Thursday.
On the official website of the French government you can read how often Ajax supporters have caused unrest around European away matches. This includes reference to riots before, during and after meetings with Napoli, 1. FC Union Berlin and Brighton & Hove Albion in a European context.
The authorities in France do not hesitate to highlight the misdeeds of the Marseille supporters. In May 2022, around half-time in the Conference League against Feyenoord, hooligans even used machetes. At the end of October this year, the Olympique Lyon team bus was pelted, resulting in coach Fabio Grosso getting glass in his face and bleeding profusely.
If you are planning to travel to Marseille, check this; https://t.co/9hJQhRHNe9 ? Possible 6 months in prison and 30k fine plus SV of at least 1 year. ? 48 to 72 hours in detention until trial. All because you are an Ajax player. #Ajax #maraja #marseille
— Herjan Pullen (@Herjanp) November 29, 2023
Measures
It is absolutely forbidden for Ajax supporters to stay in Marseille for 24 hours. If traveling fans are spotted by the local police, a prison sentence of six months may follow. In addition, they risk a fine of 30,000 euros and a stadium ban for one year.
Supporters of the Amsterdam club who are arrested on Thursday can be held in detention for 48 to 72 hours according to French law. Only then will the judge in the south of France consider possible criminal charges.
The French police are given the freedom to control Ajax fans everywhere. In addition to on the road, checks can therefore take place at train stations and airports. Supporter policy coordinator Herjan Pullen warns the Ajax supporters once again via X by listing the possible penalties. “All because you are an Ajax player.”
It has been known for some time that Ajax is not allowed to take supporters to Marseille. Due to the high terrorist threat in France, the police cannot guarantee security around the Europa League match, if visitors from the Netherlands also have to be monitored.