Skip to content

French authorities ban Ajax fans without tickets for Champions League

Reuters

PARIS - French authorities said Saturday that Ajax Amsterdam fans without tickets would not be allowed to travel to the French capital for Tuesday's Champions League clash with Paris St Germain.

An Interior Ministry decree said "a large number of Dutch supporters, joined by supporters from other countries, are expected in Paris" ahead of the match and had agreed to stage a battle "in a symbolic part of the capital".

The decree outlining the ban highlighted the fierce rivalry between Paris and Amsterdam fans and past violence involving Ajax supporters.

Only the 850 Ajax fans with tickets would be allowed to travel to Paris, the decree said. It did not say how other supporters would be stopped however.

The ministry said the there was a "serious risk to the safety of people and property".

It added that Ajax fans, even when escorted by Dutch police, "are known for acts of violence when travelling with the club, particularly during European cup matches".

It highlighted violence involving Dutch fans and those of SV Hamburg, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Lyon.

Paris St Germain lead Champions League qualifying Group F ahead of favourites Barcelona. They drew 1-1 with Ajax in Amsterdam on September 17.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox