On October 24, ASSE supporters, the Magic Fans, celebrated the club's 35th anniversary at Geoffroy-Guichard with a spectacular fireworks display and nearly 400 smoke bombs. No injuries were reported, but the quantity of pyrotechnic devices and the way in which they were able to enter the stadium raised serious questions. In response, the club launched an internal investigation to determine how these fireworks were able to get in despite the usual security checks. The leaders plan to resume discussions with representatives of the ultra group once the conclusions are available, and are considering disciplinary sanctions, or even a partial closure of the platform.
This case comes as RC Lens took a radical measure following the incidents that occurred in Bruges. After smoke jets and firecrackers hit supporters, including a participant with reduced mobility, the club decided to close the visitor parking lots for the derby against LOSC scheduled for October 30. UEFA also sanctioned Lens by closing the parking lots for trips to Leipzig and Liverpool. The club denounced 132 pyrotechnic devices identified in its grounds, emphasizing the seriousness of the excesses.
For ASSE, the situation is less dramatic on a human level, but it is not without consequences. The club must now explain how 400 smoke bombs were able to be introduced into the stadium, despite security measures. Executives are considering disciplinary action against those responsible, and management is preparing to re-evaluate safety protocols to avoid a repeat. Fans, meanwhile, are waiting for clear answers on what sanctions will be imposed and how their club will handle security during upcoming fixtures.
The contrast between the two clubs shows that the consequences can vary depending on the seriousness of the incidents. While Lens has taken a drastic decision to protect its supporters and prevent future violence, ASSE is focusing on an internal investigation and the implementation of corrective measures. In both cases, the clubs demonstrate their desire to take concrete measures to guarantee the safety of spectators. The next steps for ASSE will depend on the findings of the investigation, while Lens will continue to closely monitor the situation of supporters during upcoming away matches.