OGC Nice’s supporters will be notably absent when their team battles for top-flight survival. The disciplinary committee of the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has confirmed that the club’s home leg against AS Saint-Etienne in the Ligue 1-Ligue 2 playoffs will be played without spectators. The match is scheduled for May 29 at 8:45 PM local time at the Allianz Riviera. The away leg at Geoffroy-Guichard is set for May 26.

The ruling comes after incidents during Nice’s final league game of the season against Metz (0-0). Supporters breached the pitch, ignited pyrotechnics, and caused damage at full-time. As a result, Nice faces two closed-door fixtures at the Allianz Riviera and one suspended closed-door game. The club’s next home match—regardless of competition—will also take place without fans.

Rivère: “Fans must stand by the team through thick and thin”

Jean-Pierre Rivère, who resumed the club’s presidency mid-season, expressed disappointment over the outcome but emphasized the importance of unwavering support. “I regret how things ended. When you choose to support a team, you stand by them until the very end,” he said after the Metz match. “This season has been incredibly tough—we knew it would be difficult, but not to this extent.” Rivère acknowledged the fans’ frustration but stressed that the team still has two matches to fight for survival in Ligue 1.

The club’s future now hinges on the playoff showdown with Saint-Etienne. Without the backing of their usual fanbase, the Aiglons will need every ounce of resilience to secure another season in France’s top flight.

Key disciplinary decisions handed down by the LFP:

Suspensions:

Ligue 1 McDonald’s

A one-match suspension triggered after a fifth booking (across Ligue 1, Coupe de France, or Trophée des Champions) or suspension of probation. These sanctions take effect from May 26, 2026.

Players: Benjamin ANDRE (LOSC Lille), Mahdi CAMARA (Stade Rennais FC), Christian MAWISSA (AS Monaco), Elye WAHI (OGC Nice)

Pitchside behavior:

Ligue 1 McDonald’s – 33rd Matchday: Paris Saint-Germain vs Stade Brestois 29 (May 10, 2026)

Supporters of PSG used pyrotechnics and displayed provocative banners.

Sanction: Closure of the Auteuil stand at Parc des Princes for one home Ligue 1 match in the 2026/27 season.

Ligue 1 McDonald’s – 34th Matchday: OGC Nice vs FC Metz (May 17, 2026)

Incidents included pyrotechnic use, pitch invasion, and damage following the final whistle.

Sanctions: Two closed-door matches and one suspended closed-door game at the Allianz Riviera, effective immediately.