This Wednesday, the disciplinary committee of the Professional Football League (LFP) was due to deliver its verdict concerning the incidents that occurred during the derby between Olympique Lyonnais and AS Saint-Étienne on November 10. This match, won by the Lyonnais (1-0), was marked by some excesses which could result in sanctions for OL.
During this match on the 11th day of Ligue 1, several events occurred alongside the pitch. Dozens of pyrotechnic devices were lit in the stands of Groupama Stadium, causing a temporary interruption of the game. In addition, homophobic chants were heard and criticized by OL supporters. Enough to weigh down the Lyon club's case before the commission.
OL trembles in Ligue 1
According to initial information from the Team, a partial closed session was the most likely sanction, but a total closed session could not be ruled out. While OL are struggling to get back on track in a championship where every point counts, we were waiting for the sentiment from the Rhône side. If the sporting aspect is doing better in recent weeks, OL has already seen itself sanctioned by the DNCG. A heavy sanction since OL will not be able to recruit this winter, but will absolutely have to sell.
It is therefore a new hiccup which arrives in the offices of OL while this file takes place in a context where the LFP is showing itself more and more firm in the face of excesses. Other recent cases, such as those involving Nantes or Bastia, were also studied. Behind closed doors and even withdrawals of points were possibly mentioned.
The sentence falls
For Olympique Lyonnais, the verdict fell this Wednesday: “Closure of the area reserved for the Lyon 1950 group at the Groupama Stadium for a match. The sanction takes effect immediately.”
Nothing serious in the end for OL.