French government condemns ‘disgusting’ Marseille fan violence

The French government described the weekend’s violence around the Marseille stadium as “disgusting” and said nine people were arrested after Lyon’s visitors’ bus was attacked and their coach Fabio Grosso injured.

Sunday’s Ligue 1 match between the two rival teams, who have a history of fan violence, has been called off.

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Lyon’s Grosso was left bloodied and dazed after being hit in the face and head by shards of glass when stones were thrown at the bus.

“We’ve seen pretty much everything you wouldn’t want to see,” Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera said on France 2 on Monday, adding that fans also reportedly chanted anti-gay and racist insults inside. of the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille.

“It was painful, revolting, disgusting.”

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said nine people had been arrested so far.

“I hope that the heaviest prison sentences will be imposed on the supporters who spoiled the party for everyone,” he added on BFM TV.

Potential sanctions against clubs will depend on football authorities, he said. Darmanin denied that authorities were unprepared for the risk, saying 500 police officers were present.