Anderlecht fans may have to miss their European away trip to Marseille. French authorities recently banned Olympiakos fans from traveling to support their team for the Europa League match against Olympique Marseille. Concern is now growing among Anderlecht supporters that the same scenario could repeat itself on January 28, 2027.
France cites potential violent incidents and rivalries between Greek supporter groups as the reason for the ban. The ties between certain Marseille ultras and those of AEK Athens also play a role, as does the tense atmosphere surrounding student protests in the city.
Continue reading below the articleContinue reading Anderlecht supporters are also under scrutiny. The Purple-and-Whites' supporters have come under fire on several occasions in recent years, including during clashes with Fenerbahçe and on an away trip to Real Sociedad. Furthermore, Mauve Army 03 maintains friendly ties with supporters of Olympique Lyon, a major rival of Marseille.
Marseille has previously barred visiting supporters from European matches on several occasions. For example, fans of Ajax Amsterdam were previously barred from traveling to a match. The Amsterdam hard-core fan group also has close ties with that of Anderlecht.
The potential ban could have serious sporting consequences. The match against Marseille is scheduled for the final matchday of the Europa League group stage and could determine Anderlecht's European future.
If the Brussels supporters are ultimately allowed to attend, they could receive approximately 3,300 tickets. For now, it remains to be seen whether the French authorities will give the green light for the trip.
