Tensions erupted on the streets of Marseille on Monday night, casting a dark shadow over Newcastle United's highly anticipated Champions League clash with the French side. Disturbing videos circulated online showing travelling supporters seeking refuge in a local bar after apparent attacks, while other footage captured violent street brawls.
A Night of Contrasts: From Camaraderie to Chaos
The evening had begun with a show of camaraderie. Earlier videos depicted Newcastle and Marseille fans in jovial spirits together in a bar, bonding over their shared dislike of Paris Saint-Germain. However, the mood soured dramatically as the night progressed.
A later video emerged showing Newcastle fans crammed into a bar, with several individuals coughing and in distress. It was widely suggested that Marseille fans had thrown tear gas canisters into the establishment before fleeing the scene. The incident was shared on social media platform X with the caption, 'Coward Marseille fans ran away after throwing tear gas canisters at Newcastle fans having a drink.'
Street Fights and Police Warnings
Separate footage from Monday night showed a street brawl, with unidentifiable individuals seen punching and kicking each other. One person was heard shouting 'come on' in English during the altercation. One user on X claimed that undercover police had warned Newcastle fans to get inside a bar because a large group of opposing fans, allegedly around 70 people wearing balaclavas, were on their way to attack them.
These violent incidents occurred despite stringent safety warnings issued to the estimated 3,300 travelling Newcastle supporters. French police had strongly advised fans not to wear club colours, congregate in large groups, or visit the city's Old Port (Vieux Port) area, a known flashpoint. An official club statement had also warned against booking hotels near the stadium.
A Notoriously Hostile Environment and Strict Measures
The seaside city of Marseille is renowned for its hostile environment for away fans, where a strong 'ultra' culture prevails. Local police intelligence reportedly stated that the visit of an English club is freighted with the potential for trouble, a concern underscored by the violent history of the Old Port area during England's Euro 2016 opener against Russia.
In response, authorities implemented strict measures for Tuesday's match. Newcastle fans have a mandatory meet-up point at Place de la Joilette and must take official, police-escorted transport to the Stade Velodrome from 4:30 PM, with no exceptions. Supporters also face the prospect of being held back at the stadium for at least 45 minutes after the final whistle.
The situation echoes recent security concerns in Marseille; in September, Ajax fans were banned from attending their Champions League fixture there due to the violent reputation of both sets of supporters.
