The incident occurred after Newcastle lost 1-2 to Olympique Marseille on matchday five of the 2025/26 Champions League. Despite the defeat, the club's focus is now on the welfare of the fans who experienced excessive pressure as they were about to leave the stadium.
"We have formally lodged a complaint with UEFA, Olympique de Marseille and the French police authorities regarding the unacceptable treatment of our supporters by police at the Stade Velodrome following the Champions League match," Newcastle wrote, as quoted on the club's official website.
According to the club's report, after the first group of visiting supporters managed to leave the stadium, the police suddenly became aggressive towards the remaining group.
"Police used unnecessary and disproportionate force, including pepper spray, batons, and shields, to obstruct the movement of our supporters. Many supporters were attacked indiscriminately," the statement said.
Several supporters were reportedly distressed and traumatized by the officers' actions.
"Our staff attempted to intervene immediately and speak with the officers, but the police tactics remained excessive. Supporters who eventually managed to leave expressed their disappointment, frustration, and anger to us," Newcastle said.
The Northern England club stressed that the safety and well-being of fans must be the highest priority in every European match.
“We strongly condemn the police treatment of our supporters in this incident,” the statement said.
As of this writing, there has been no official response from UEFA or Olympique Marseille regarding the complaint.
In the current Champions League standings, Newcastle are stuck in 11th place with 9 points from 5 matches, while Marseille are 21st with 6 points.
