Players from OGC Nice are speaking out, aiming to “restore the truth” after a disturbing incident where they were targeted by disgruntled club supporters. In a joint statement released on the club’s official website, the players detailed what they describe as a deliberate downplaying of facts, significant security lapses, and a “lack of support” following the serious attacks that occurred recently.
The statement explicitly outlines that “several of our players and managers were direct victims of physical (multiple spitting and blows) and verbal attacks.” Notable figures like Florian Maurice, Terem Moffi, Jérémie Boga, and Jonathan Clauss were reportedly subjected to thes unacceptable conditions. the repercussions have been significant, with two players reportedly suffering from both physical and psychological after-effects, hindering their ability to return to competition without distress.
Clearly distressed and determined to “reestablish the truth,” the players specifically called out “attempts to minimize or distort the facts by certain peopel and organizations who were not present at the scene.” They are demanding a “thorough investigation” and the “highlighting of responsibilities” to ensure accountability.
Security Measures Deemed “Largely Insufficient”
The incident occurred as the Nice squad returned from a disappointing 3-1 loss in Lorient on Sunday, only to be met by over 200 angry supporters at the club’s training center. The players reiterated their “deplore with the greatest firmness the failures observed in the organization and management of the security system.”
Their criticism extended to the police response, stating that “police services did not disperse” a “large number of hooded individuals, elements clearly identified as prohibited on public roads.” Moreover, they alleged that the police “did not carry out an intervention adapted to the seriousness of the situation.” The players emphasized that “given the context, the number of supporters present and their obvious virulence, the measures put in place were largely insufficient.”
In the wake of these events, formal complaints were filed on Monday, leading to an investigation launched the following day by the Nice prosecutor’s office. The investigation is reportedly looking into charges of “aggravated violence, participation in a group preparing violence or damage and failure to prevent an offense against bodily integrity.”
The OGC Nice club itself filed a complaint against unknown individuals on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, the Nice ultras released a statement asserting they were “not at the origin” of the demonstration. The team, having lost its last six matches, is scheduled to host Angers in Ligue 1 this Sunday, a match that has now been classified as high-risk due to the prevailing tensions.
