Ajaccio-Bastia: Fan Clashes and Lightning Force Suspension of Ligue 2 Derby

The highly anticipated Corsican derby between AC Ajaccio and SC Bastia was cut short due to clashes in the stands and an intense storm.

The Ligue 2 match, held at the Michel-Moretti stadium, was suspended just before half-time, bringing a dramatic halt to the game after fans clashed in the Poli stand.

The interruption occurred in the 42nd minute, with clashes among supporters leading to crowd movements and a pitch invasion by fans seeking safety. Referee Olivier Thual sent both teams to the locker rooms as officials attempted to restore order.

Bastia Fans Present Despite Travel Ban

Adding to the tension, hundreds of SC Bastia supporters were in attendance despite an official travel ban imposed by the South Corsica prefecture. The visitors’ section was closed, but reports estimate that between 500 and 800 Bastia fans managed to attend, igniting tensions in the stadium. According to *France Bleu RCFM*, the prefectural decree aimed to minimise the risk of disturbances, a precaution that, ultimately, was unsuccessful.

Calm returned to the stadium after a few minutes, and there was initial hope for the match’s continuation. However, heavy rain and thunderstorms then swept over Ajaccio, rendering the pitch unplayable. As a result, the game was abandoned for the day.

Investigation Opened Over Fan Clashes

The Ajaccio prosecutor’s office has since launched an investigation into “non-compliance with an administrative order prohibiting travel.” This inquiry addresses the presence of Bastia fans despite the ban, which authorities had imposed in an attempt to avoid clashes at the tense derby. Many occupants in the family-oriented Poli stand took refuge on the pitch during the scuffles to avoid any risk of stampede, according to witnesses on-site.

The Professional Football League (LFP) is expected to announce a rescheduled date for the match, likely before the end of November. This fixture would mark the first time since the 2012/2013 season that supporters from both sides attended the Corsican derby in person.

Site Opinion: The Ongoing Challenge of Fan Control in High-Tension Derbies

The chaotic scenes at the Ajaccio-Bastia derby underscore a recurring challenge in managing high-stakes matches with heated local rivalries. Despite proactive measures from local authorities, including travel restrictions, the presence of Bastia fans—and the resulting clashes—highlight the difficulty of enforcing such measures effectively. The scenes at the Michel-Moretti stadium are a stark reminder that security protocols require constant adaptation to address the evolving nature of fan behaviour.

Looking ahead, a more collaborative approach may be essential to manage future derbies safely. Coordinated efforts involving clubs, law enforcement, and supporters’ groups could provide a framework to uphold both fan traditions and public safety. The Corsican derby, as one of France’s most passionate football rivalries, carries a unique significance. Maintaining its spirit while ensuring security will require innovative strategies and strong communication between all parties involved.