A severe incident of violence broke out in France following a match between the under-17 youth teams of Grenoble and Lyon. According to a report by RMC Sport, a brawl erupted outside the stadium, leaving a Lyon player with blows to the head. Several individuals involved were reportedly armed with knives, and one pulled out a gun, though it remains unclear whether the firearm was real.
From pitch taunts to armed confrontation
The match, played on Sunday at the Stade Roger Garcin in Grenoble, concluded without any unusual incidents on the pitch, despite youths in the stands cursing at and taunting the Lyon players throughout the game. After the final whistle, one of the visiting team's players lost his patience and attempted to confront the hecklers.
According to the local daily Le Progrès, the confrontation rapidly escalated into a brawl, during which the player suffered heavy blows to his head. Other Lyon players were also subjected to death threats, as some of the youths brandished knives and one drew a gun.
Police arrived at the scene minutes later, but the suspects had already fled on electric scooters. Meanwhile, Lyon's players and staff took shelter in the locker room and aboard the team bus.
Club condemns attack, weighs legal action
Grenoble's club president strongly condemned the violence: "The club firmly condemns the violent behavior and the actions that run counter to the fundamental values of sport. No sporting rivalry, no result, and no circumstances can justify such behavior. The match itself was played under good conditions on the pitch. The unfortunate events took place only after its conclusion, outside the stadium grounds. Those responsible for the incident are individuals with no connection to the club."
Grenoble announced that it is considering filing a criminal complaint over the incident and expressed its support for Lyon, its players, and its staff.