The game was halted in the 22nd minute after Nantes ultras breached the pitch, throwing flares and objects. Referee Stéphanie Frappart ordered both teams back to the dressing rooms as a security measure. The match official later confirmed the permanent abandonment of the fixture during a press briefing.

officials cite security concerns

Olivier Chovaux, Ligue 1 delegate, addressed the media alongside Frappart, stating: «You have witnessed, as we have, a mass pitch invasion accompanied by pyrotechnics and object throwing. This necessitated the retreat of officials and both teams to the locker rooms.» He added: «The match has been definitively abandoned on the prefect’s decision due to safety concerns.»

minister condemns violent scenes

French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari swiftly condemned the disturbances, declaring: «The scenes of violence that unfolded minutes ago during the Nantes vs Toulouse match are unacceptable and have no place in sports or our Republic. I strongly condemn these actions and stand with the players and supporters who came to enjoy the game peacefully.»

Ferrari emphasized the swift intervention of stewards and law enforcement, stressing that «everyone must take responsibility to identify and punish those responsible for these acts with the utmost severity.»

halilhodzic’s emotional farewell

The match was stopped at 0-0 after Nantes coach Vahid Halilhodzic, who is leaving the club, remained on the touchline shouting at supporters who approached him. Security personnel had to restrain him from confronting the fans. The former Nantes boss will guide the team next season in Ligue 2 after their relegation.