Following an emergency meeting at Lyon’s prefecture, the National Directorate for Combating Hooliganism has officially classified the August 26 return leg between Lyon and Fenerbahçe as a high-risk event, scoring 4 out of 5 on the risk assessment scale. This decision underscores the seriousness of the security measures required for the encounter at Groupama Stadium.

A delegation of 2,220 Fenerbahçe supporters is expected, including 1,000 traveling from Turkey and another 1,000 from within the European Union. An additional 200 identified high-risk individuals and 20 VIP guests will be accommodated in the away sector, which has a capacity of 2,816. Among these fans, approximately 500 to 700 Turkish supporters are known to have problematic profiles.

Strict ticketing measures to prevent unauthorized resale

No tickets will be available for purchase at the stadium or at the designated meeting point in Eurexpo, Chassieu, on match day. Fenerbahçe supporters will exchange pre-issued coupons—distributed exclusively through the club’s dedicated channels—for official match tickets. The organized gathering of Turkish fans is scheduled for 6:00 PM at the Eurexpo meeting point, from where they will be transported to Groupama Stadium via 15 to 20 buses or shuttles.

OL clamps down on ticket resale violations

The Olympique Lyonnais has intensified its crackdown on unauthorized ticket resale, following the identification of three groups that violated this policy. A formal notice will be sent to these individuals, notifying them of the suspension of their season tickets without refund. The club reserves the right to impose stadium bans as additional disciplinary measures.

Lessons learned from past disturbances

Authorities are prepared to take further action based on the outcome of the first leg on August 18. The prefect of Lyon may issue decrees prohibiting Turkish supporters—or individuals identified as such—from entering the city center on August 26, to prevent potential clashes with Lyon ultras. This precautionary measure follows the violent incidents that marred the 2017 UEFA Europa League quarterfinal between Lyon and Beşiktaş in Décines-Charpieu, where crowd disturbances erupted in the north stand. To ensure order, authorities plan to deploy three additional CRS (Compagnies Républicaines de Sécurité) units alongside the standard stadium security forces. With 50,000 spectators anticipated for this pivotal Champions League playoff, every measure is being taken to guarantee a safe and orderly event.