Marseille ordered to close parts of stadium over fan violence

The French Professional Football League on Friday imposed sanctions against Olympique de Marseille club to close down parts of their home ground - the Velodrome Stadium - till October 15 for fan violence that marred their Ligue 1 match against Lyon on September 20.

The sanctions committee justified this measure, which includes the closure of the north and south areas of the stadium, "in view of the seriousness of the facts and the context of recurrence", according to a statement on Friday, noting that an investigation has been opened.

Marseille were sanctioned for their fan's behaviour during Sunday's 1-1 draw with Lyon, which was held up for 20 minutes for violence.

The governing body has called a meeting on October 15 with Marseille officials, after the investigation has been concluded, and then the disciplinary committee will make a decision.

The referee at the Marseille-Lyon clash on Sunday had to interrupt the game twice after the home fans threw objects, including bottles, on the ground.