Overview

• During the Saint-Étienne–Lyon derby on April 20, assistant referee Mehdi Rahmouni was struck by a coin thrown from the stands, causing a 45-minute match interruption.
• The Syndicat des arbitres du football d’élite (SAFE) has filed a formal complaint against the identified suspect, emphasizing the need for stronger protections for referees.
• The 28-year-old supporter, who was arrested and placed under judicial control, will face trial on October 13 for charges including aggravated violence and throwing dangerous projectiles.
• SAFE condemned the attack, reaffirming that referees perform a public-service mission and calling for the enforcement of stricter penalties for such offenses.
• The incident is part of a broader pattern of escalating violence and misconduct in Ligue 1, prompting calls for enhanced security and procedural reforms across French football.