Newcastle United to File Complaint Over Treatment of Fans by French Police

Newcastle United Football Club plans to lodge an official complaint regarding the “unacceptable treatment” of their supporters by French police after the team’s recent loss to Marseille at the Stade Velodrome.

The club intends to raise its concerns with UEFA, the Marseille authorities, and the French police following reports of officers employing “unnecessary and disproportionate force” after Tuesday’s Champions League match.

According to Newcastle, a combination of pepper spray, batons, and shields was utilized by law enforcement, resulting in numerous supporters being “indiscriminately assaulted by the police.”

The club firmly condemned the treatment of its fans, emphasizing that their safety and welfare should always be a top priority. The travelling Magpies supporters were originally scheduled to be held inside the stadium for up to one hour after the final whistle for their own safety.

After the first group of fans was permitted to leave following the team’s 2-1 defeat, Newcastle reported that police began to use excessive force to prevent the remaining supporters from exiting. “Many supporters were visibly distressed, particularly in the upper concourse area of the away section, where crowding became evident,” the club stated.

Newcastle’s staff attempted to address the situation with the police; however, their efforts had a limited effect on the aggressive tactics employed. Fans exiting the stadium expressed their distress and frustration to club staff, and the organization has since received alarming eyewitness accounts from supporters present during the incident.

The post-match police operation was closely monitored by Newcastle stewards and senior officials.

Further updates are anticipated.