After the serious incidents that occurred in last Sunday’s derby between Nice and Marseille in Ligue 1, there will be some hefty sanctions handed out by the league’s disciplinary committee.
Some of Nice’s ultras ended up storming their way onto the pitch at the Allianz Riviera after Dimitri Payet threw back a bottle into the crowd which had him on his back.
As announced by L’Equipe, there will be decisions regarding the fans and players involved, as well as the possible closure of part of Nice’s stadium and whether the match should be resumed or abandoned.
The first step in this process will be to open a period of investigations and prosecutions under the criminal justice system, based on the individual complaints that will be presented by fans, players and members of staff.
Nice are already wanting to move forward and charge all of their fans involved in the altercation, something that the disciplinary committee of the league would take into account when determining their sanction.
Temporary closure of the South Stand
As is the case in France, the disciplinary committee will begin by investigating the facts for a period of three to six weeks, while taking immediate measures.
It has already announced the temporary closure of the popular South Stand, which is where Nice’s ultras are situated, for at least four matches.
Possible points deduction
Nice could also be looking at a points deduction for their actions on Saturday, as they failed to respect the order of the league’s authorities.
Marseille also could be looking at a points deduction as they didn’t return to the field of play for the final minutes of the match.
Wide range of sanctions for players and members of staff
Many individuals may also be disciplined for their actions on Saturday.
Marseille’s fitness coach, Pablo Fernandez, was seen punching a Nice fan and faces a suspension that could last for several years.
There were a few players who were also involved in the clashes, such as Alvaro Gonzalez, who threw a ball into the stand, and Jean-Clair Todibo.
There may be some leniency towards Dimitri Payet, as he was hit by a bottle before he decided to throw it back.
Regarding the match, there are three possible outcomes: to end the game with the result at the time of the match suspension (1-0 to Nice); a 3-0 victory for one of the two teams; or the resumption of the match behind closed doors.
