Saint-Étienne, France – The fervent supporters of AS Saint-Étienne, a club steeped in French football history, are once again bracing for potential upheaval. The Magic Fans and Green Angels, two of the club’s most prominent ultras groups, are facing renewed threats of dissolution from the French government, just over a year after narrowly avoiding a similar fate. The situation has prompted a swift response from the city’s mayor, who is appealing directly to the Minister of the Interior.
The groups, known for their passionate displays of support – including elaborate tifos, coordinated chants, and vibrant banners – are accused of involvement in recent violent incidents. According to sources within the club, the Magic Fans and Green Angels have been summoned to appear before the Commission nationale consultative de prévention des violences lors des manifestations sportives on April 13th. This commission will review the case and make recommendations regarding potential dissolution.
This isn’t the first time these ultras groups have found themselves in the government’s crosshairs. In the spring of 2025, a similar attempt to dissolve the Magic Fans and Green Angels was launched, but ultimately stalled. The club, at that time, successfully argued against the move, questioning the justification for targeting these specific groups. The current proceedings stem from recent events, including clashes that occurred before a match in Grenoble on March 14th, which resulted in administrative stadium bans for some individuals involved.
Mayor Seeks Urgent Meeting with Interior Minister
The renewed threat has sparked immediate concern from local officials. Régis Juanico, the recently elected Socialist mayor of Saint-Étienne, and Pierrick Courbon, a local Member of Parliament, released a joint statement on Wednesday evening expressing their opposition to the potential dissolution. They have formally requested an urgent meeting with Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez to discuss the matter.
In their statement, Juanico and Courbon emphasized the potential negative consequences of dissolving the supporter groups. They argued that such a move could be counterproductive in terms of public order, would eliminate valuable points of contact for security purposes, and could lead to costly legal challenges. They are urging Minister Nuñez to reconsider the course of action.
The club itself has reiterated its stance against violence, stating that it has “done its function” over the past year and will continue to do so. Ivan Gazidis, the AS Saint-Étienne president, previously voiced strong opposition to the dissolution attempts in March 2025, questioning the rationale behind singling out these particular supporter groups.
The history of tension between the ultras groups and authorities is well-documented. In March 2025, approximately 3,200 supporters staged a large demonstration, marching from the city center to the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium to protest the initial dissolution threats. Chanting slogans like “Le Chaudron ne se dissout pas” (The Cauldron will not dissolve) and “Touche pas à mes kops” (Don’t touch my stands), the supporters were greeted by Gazidis upon reaching the stadium.
The “Chaudron,” as the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium is affectionately known, holds a special place in French football culture. The Magic Fans, founded in 1991, and the Green Angels, established in 1992, have been instrumental in creating the stadium’s renowned atmosphere, contributing significantly to the club’s identity and passionate fanbase. Dissolving these groups would undoubtedly alter the landscape of support for AS Saint-Étienne.
The situation is particularly sensitive given Saint-Étienne’s current position in Ligue 2. The club, a historical powerhouse in French football, is striving to regain its place in the top flight. A fractured relationship between the club and its most ardent supporters could further complicate those efforts.
The upcoming hearing on April 13th will be crucial. The Magic Fans and Green Angels will have the opportunity to present their case to the commission and defend their right to exist. The outcome of this hearing will likely have significant implications for the future of supporter culture at AS Saint-Étienne and potentially set a precedent for other clubs facing similar challenges.
For AS Saint-Étienne supporters, the next few weeks will be filled with uncertainty. The club and its fans are hoping for a resolution that allows the Magic Fans and Green Angels to continue their role as the vibrant heart of the Chaudron. The club is scheduled to face Annecy on April 20th, and the atmosphere at the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium will undoubtedly be closely watched.
The situation underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the role of ultras groups in modern football. While their passion and dedication are undeniable, concerns about violence and disorder remain a persistent challenge for clubs and authorities alike. Finding a balance between preserving the atmosphere created by these groups and ensuring the safety and security of all attendees remains a complex and delicate task.
