The supporters' groups of the French club Olympique de Marseille have officially announced their decision not to travel to Kuwait to support their team in the upcoming Classique match against their traditional rival Paris Saint-Germain, as part of the French Champions Cup (Super Cup) competition scheduled for January 8th.
This decisive decision came after extensive consultations between supporters' groups and the club's management. Around 150 fans of the southern club had planned to travel to Kuwait. Marseille's management offered a substantial financial incentive to facilitate the trip, with the club covering €850 per fan, leaving each supporter to pay only a nominal fee of €150. Despite these incentives, the fans opted to boycott the trip.
Conflict with Ultras culture
The fan groups cited the choice of Kuwait as the venue for the match as the reason for their rejection, stating that it "does not align with the culture of the Ultras" and the hardcore fans who employ specific chanting styles that may clash with the laws or customs of the host country. This stance was confirmed during a meeting held on Friday between fan representatives and the club's management, with the decision being made "by mutual agreement," reflecting the management's understanding of its supporters' position.
The only available option
For his part, Pablo Longoria, the Spanish president of Olympique de Marseille, commented on the controversy surrounding the possibility of holding the match in the Arabian Gulf region, explaining that the decision was not the club's but rather that of the French Professional Football League (LFP). Longoria stated, "Kuwait was the only serious offer submitted to the league," adding regretfully, "We believe it would be better for the fans if this match were played in France, but this option was never considered due to the league's marketing commitments.".
French football internationalization policy
This match is part of a long-term strategy adopted by the French Football League (LFP) since 2009, aimed at internationalizing French football, increasing television broadcasting revenue, and promoting Ligue 1 in new markets. As a result, the LFP has consistently held the Champions Trophy match outside of France, with previous editions hosted by numerous countries, including Canada, China, Gabon, Israel, Tunisia, the United States, Morocco, and Austria. The only exceptions were the 2020 and 2023 editions, which were held in France due to exceptional circumstances.
The importance of the French Clasico
This match holds special significance as it pits the two giants of French football against each other: Paris Saint-Germain, who dominated domestic titles last season, winning the league and cup double, and Olympique de Marseille, who finished as league runners-up. Matches between these two teams are known as "Le Classique," the most-watched and exciting fixture in France, making the absence of fans from either side a blow to the passionate atmosphere that characterizes this footballing derby.
