Ligue 1 sanctions handed down to FC Nantes after pitch invasion in Toulouse match

The French Football League (LFP) has delivered its verdict on the chaotic final day of Ligue 1 action. Following the pitch invasion by FC Nantes supporters during their match against Toulouse on May 17, the club has been handed a strict sanction that will impact their upcoming season.

The Commission de Discipline of the LFP ruled today that the Canaries must play their first home game of the 2024-25 Ligue 2 season behind closed doors. This decision comes after ultras stormed the field in protest over the club’s relegation, forcing an early end to the match.

LFP confirms match score and avoids point deduction

The disciplinary body also made several other key rulings regarding the incident. Most significantly, they confirmed the 0-0 score that stood when the match was abandoned due to the pitch invasion. This means Toulouse will not benefit from an automatic win, while Nantes retain the draw they had earned before the chaos unfolded.

Of particular note was the LFP’s decision to avoid imposing a points deduction on Nantes for the upcoming Ligue 2 campaign. While the threat of losing league points loomed over the club, the disciplinary committee ultimately opted for less severe penalties.

Additional sanctions include partial stadium closure

In addition to the closed-door match, FC Nantes faces further consequences. The Loire stand, from which the troubles originated, will remain closed for the next two home games. This targeted sanction reflects the specific area of concern identified during the investigation into the incident.

The club had faced potentially harsher penalties, including the possibility of additional point deductions, but the final sanctions appear to strike a balance between punishment and allowing the club to move forward with their Ligue 2 campaign. The Canaries will now focus on preparing for their first match behind closed doors as they begin their journey in France’s second tier.