Newcastle say fans ‘indiscriminately assaulted’ by police in Marseille
Newcastle United Football Club is preparing to file a formal complaint regarding the treatment of their supporters by French police during a recent match against Marseille in the UEFA Champions League. The incident, which occurred on October 4, 2023, has sparked outrage among the club and its fanbase, who have described the police’s actions as “unacceptable.” Following the match, which ended in a 2-0 defeat for Newcastle, many fans reported being subjected to aggressive tactics and unnecessary force by law enforcement. Eyewitness accounts detailed scenes of fans being cordoned off, searched excessively, and in some cases, being denied access to public transport back to their accommodations.
The club has expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its supporters, emphasizing that the treatment received in Marseille was not only distressing but also tarnished the experience of attending a prestigious European match. Newcastle’s managing director, Darren Eales, stated that the club stands firmly behind its fans and will seek to address the issue with the relevant authorities. This incident follows a troubling trend of mistreatment of football fans abroad, raising questions about the responsibility of host nations to ensure a safe environment for visiting supporters. The complaint is expected to detail specific grievances and call for a thorough investigation into the actions of the French police during the match.
In addition to the complaint, Newcastle United is likely to work closely with fan groups to gather testimonies and evidence to support their case. The club’s proactive stance not only highlights their dedication to their supporters but also aims to bring about necessary changes in how police interact with fans during international fixtures. As football continues to bring people together across borders, it is imperative that the safety and dignity of fans are prioritized, ensuring that the beautiful game remains a joyous and unifying experience for all. Newcastle’s actions could set a precedent for how similar incidents are addressed in the future, making it crucial for the football community to rally around the cause of fan safety and fair treatment.
Newcastle United are to launch a complaint following the “unacceptable treatment” of their supporters by French police after their side’s defeat against Marseille.
