Newcastle Complains To UEFA For Violence By French Police Against Supporters

Newcastle United's away game to Marseille has been tainted by French police violence against their supporters (Instagram/@nufc).

JAKARTA - Newcastle United will file a complaint against inappropriate treatment experienced by their supporters after a 1-2 defeat to Marseille in the Champions League.

The Premier League club accused French police of using a combination of pepper spray, batons, and shields to paralyze supporters after losing on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, early morning WIB, at the Stade Velodrome.

"We will officially convey our concerns to UEFA, Olympique de Marseille, and the French police regarding inappropriate treatment by the police against our supporters at the Stade Velodrome after the Champions League match," the club said in a statement.

According to Newcastle, supporters traveling were detained in the stadium for an hour in a previously planned step for their safety. As many as 500 people were then escorted to the metro to get to the supporters' gathering point.

However, that's when the plan seemed to fall apart, with operations after the match watched closely by Newcastle's senior board and staff.

"After the first group of supporters were released, the police began using unnecessary and disproportionate forces to stop the rest of our supporters from moving further."

"This action is carried out by combining pepper spray, batons, and shields, with many supporters being attacked indiscriminately by the police."

"Many supporters look depressed, especially in the concourse area of the away sector, where violence is clearly visible."

"Our staff immediately reported this matter to the police, but it only had a minor impact on their excessive tactics."

"The supporters who left the stadium deserve to express their sadness, frustration and anger at our staff. We then received a very concerning witness report from the supporters present."

"The safety and welfare of supporters must always be a top priority. We strongly condemn the police's treatment of our supporters during this incident," continued The Magpies statement.

Newcastle said they would contact UEFA to conduct an investigation into what happened to ensure lessons can be learned and this behavior does not happen again. They have also asked supporters to share views on the experience.