Newcastle United Fans Face Police Assault Claims in Marseille

Newcastle United Fans Allege Police Assault at Champions League Match

Newcastle United fans have raised serious concerns after their treatment by law enforcement during the recent Champions League clash with Marseille at Stade Vélodrome. The primary focus keyword, “Newcastle United fans,” is central to this incident, which saw supporters claim they were subjected to “unnecessary and disproportionate force” by French police following the team’s 2-1 defeat.

Club Statement: Newcastle United Fans Demand Answers

In an official statement released on the club’s website, Newcastle United declared their intention to file formal complaints with UEFA, Olympique de Marseille, and the French police. The club expressed outrage over what they described as “indiscriminate” assaults on their fans, including the use of pepper spray, batons, and shields. Newcastle United fans were reportedly forced to remain in the stadium for up to an hour after the final whistle—an operation overseen by club stewards and senior staff.

Despite the fans’ orderly conduct, the statement alleges that police escalated the situation, particularly as supporters were being escorted to the Metro station for onward travel. “Once the first group of supporters was released, the police began using unnecessary and disproportionate force,” the club reported. This alleged use of force resulted in visible distress among Newcastle United fans, with reports of crushing and panic in the upper concourse.

Calls for UEFA Investigation and Supporter Testimonies

Newcastle United stressed that supporter welfare should always be paramount, calling for a thorough investigation to ensure “lessons are learned and this behaviour is not repeated.” The club is collecting eyewitness reports from Newcastle United fans and working closely with the United Kingdom Football Policing Unit (UKFPU). Any supporters affected by the events are urged to share their accounts via the club’s email, with the intention of submitting a comprehensive dossier to UEFA and relevant authorities.

Fan Voices: Frustration, Anger, and Injustice

Season ticket holder Liam Phillips shared his distress, emphasizing that the majority of Newcastle United fans in attendance were peaceful and simply there to support their team. “It just felt inhumane and felt to me like we were being treated like criminals when actually the vast majority if not everybody were just there to watch their team,” Phillips told BBC Sport. He also noted that despite friendly interactions with Marseille locals, the heavy-handed approach of the police marred the entire experience.

Club Appeals for More Newcastle United Fans to Come Forward

Ahead of their upcoming Premier League encounter with Everton, Newcastle United has reiterated its call for fans to provide detailed witness reports. The club intends to compile as much evidence as possible to support any legal or disciplinary action pursued on behalf of its supporters. For those seeking further coverage and developments on this story, visit our homepage for more news.

Broader Implications: Safety of Newcastle United Fans Abroad

This incident has not only sparked anger among Newcastle United fans but has also reignited the discussion around supporter safety at European away fixtures. The club’s insistence on holding UEFA and local authorities accountable suggests a growing demand for better protocols and transparent investigations when fan welfare is compromised.

Opinion: The Importance of Respecting Football Supporters

It is deeply concerning to see Newcastle United fans, or any travelling supporters, subjected to excessive force and poor treatment. While maintaining security is essential, respect and proportionality are key. Football fans are the lifeblood of the sport, and their safety must always come before heavy-handed policing. UEFA and local authorities must ensure incidents like this are thoroughly investigated, and that lasting solutions are put in place to protect all supporters travelling to cheer on their clubs.