Overview

• Violent clashes during the Lille-Lens derby on March 30, 2025, led to 20 arrests, with police officers facing 'unacceptable violence,' according to Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau.
• Retailleau criticized the 'complacency' of some elected officials and football club leaders, holding them partly responsible for the ongoing violence.
• The Ministry of the Interior has initiated procedures to dissolve three violent supporter groups: Magic Fans, Green Angels, and Légion X.
• Violence at French football matches has surged during the 2024-2025 season, with 627 arrests recorded so far, marking a 41% increase from the previous season.
• The government is intensifying measures to address the issue, including engaging the national consultative commission on prevention at sporting events.