The recent violence that occurred during the match between Olympique Lyonnais and FC Nantes has sparked a strong reaction from the Bad Gones and the Kop Virage Nord, two of the main supporters’ groups from Lyon. In a statement, they provided clarifications following the accusations surrounding the incidents, while responding to the declarations from the Six Neuf Pirates.
Reactions from the Bad Gones and the Kop Virage Nord
The day after the clashes at the Groupama Stadium, the Bad Gones and the Kop Virage Nord denounce a ”media conspiracy, political maneuvering, and harassment on social media” targeting their group. In their statement, they express regret over the events that occurred after OL’s victory but assert that the reported facts are exaggerated and misleading. They insist that they did not intend to make any statements following this victory, but feel compelled to defend their reputation.
The two supporters’ groups directly criticize the Six Neuf Pirates, a newly formed supporters’ group, accusing its members of wanting to play the victim. They highlight the presence of weapons at the scene of the incidents, as well as the arrest of a member of this group for carrying a prohibited weapon.
Clashes and accusations of racism
The Bad Gones and the Kop Virage Nord also respond to accusations of racism and ties with the far-right. They declare that their commitment is limited to their support for Olympique Lyonnais, explaining that their pride in their city and their club does not equate to political involvement. By stating “If our love for our city and our country bothers you: we don’t care!,” they aim to protect their collective’s image against false insinuations.
They specify that they have banned only one person since the formation of the Kop, which illustrates their desire to distance themselves from any form of violence or extremism.
Political context and concerns
The affair has also taken on a political dimension, particularly with statements from deputies of the New Popular Front condemning the violence. The Bad Gones and the Kop Virage Nord express their surprise at how quickly certain elected officials reacted, suggesting that their statements were prepared even before the incidents. They thus question the ethics of the judgments made by these political leaders, emphasizing the importance of basing their accusations on tangible evidence.
In response to this tumultuous situation, the Six Neuf Pirates assert, for their part, their apolitical and non-violent nature, thus reinforcing the dichotomy between the two supporters’ groups. With these ongoing tensions, the rivalry within the supporters seems to be intensifying, highlighting the socio-political stakes within the football environment.
Source: rmcsport.bfmtv.com