Pitch invasion outrage: FC Nantes supporters’ club president brands culprits ‘cowards’

The shocking scenes that forced officials to abandon the Ligue 1 showdown between FC Nantes and Toulouse have left the football community in uproar. Roland Menu, president of supporters’ club ‘Allez Nantes Canaris’, speaks out against the violence that overshadowed the match.

The May 17th encounter between Nantes and Toulouse was halted after a series of dangerous incidents including pitch invasion, object throwing, and smoke bombs. The match was abandoned for good, leaving both teams and fans in shock.

Roland Menu, who has supported FC Nantes for six decades, leads the ‘Allez Nantes Canaris’ supporters’ association. He minces no words condemning the behavior that has drawn widespread criticism:

Do you agree with coach Vahid Halilhodžić and other fans who described the incidents as ‘shameful’ and ‘cowardly’?

Absolutely. This was a disgrace and those responsible are cowards. Watching what unfolded last night was heartbreaking. While we understand the frustration with the team’s performance, invading the pitch crosses every line. We know the consequences this will have for the club.

Did you expect such violent outbursts from the ultras?

We had heard rumors of potential protests, but anticipated them after the final whistle. Nothing prepared us for the sheer scale of violence that erupted during the match itself. The intensity and speed of these actions caught everyone off guard.

Coach Halilhodžić’s emotional reaction was understandable given the circumstances. Do you share his sentiments?

Without question. His appeal to fans to return to the stands was exactly what we needed. After 60 years of supporting this club, seeing him so distressed – especially during what turned out to be his final match – was difficult to witness.

What consequences do you foresee from this pitch invasion?

The immediate concern is closed-door matches. Come August, we may face two or three games without supporters behind our team. I’m also deeply worried about potential point deductions. Starting the season with an immediate handicap would be disastrous.

The far-right has called for disbanding the Loire Brigade, echoing previous demands. Is this justified?

The Loire Brigade contains individuals, not supporters. While they bring energy to the stadium, yesterday’s events prove they don’t represent true fandom. Pitch invasion by any group is unacceptable behavior for supporters.

So you don’t consider them true supporters?

No. True support means encouraging the team through both victories and defeats. What we witnessed was not support – it was pure vandalism.

As a lifelong Nantes fan, will you continue supporting the team even in Ligue 2?

Absolutely. This club has given us everything – good times and bad. Through all the ups and downs with management, the team remains our priority. We’ll be there in August, whatever league we’re in.