Relegation Clash Between Montpellier and St-Etienne Halted Following Fan Unrest

A match between the two lowest-ranked teams in Ligue 1, Montpellier and Saint-Etienne, was called off in the 63rd minute on Sunday after flares were thrown onto the pitch by home fans, resulting in a section of the stands catching fire.

Montpellier, currently at the bottom of the table, found themselves down 2-0 to their rivals struggling against relegation, with Lucas Stassin scoring both goals, the second of which came just eight minutes into the second half, inciting frustration among the home supporters.

As flares landed on the field, play was halted for three minutes before briefly resuming. However, fans in the affected area began to move away as smoke and flames became visible in their section.

Ultimately, the referee sent the players back to the dressing rooms, and after a 20-minute delay, an announcement was made to inform attendees that the match had been abandoned.

This incident follows a previous abandonment in October 2023, when a firecracker was aimed at Clermont’s goalkeeper by Montpellier fans.

Currently, Montpellier has suffered six consecutive defeats in the league and has only managed four wins throughout the season, placing them in 18th position with a mere 15 points after 25 matches, six points adrift of the relegation playoff zone. Saint-Etienne sits just above them, holding 20 points.