2,000 children replace ultras after UEFA decision

A few days ago, Ligue 1 club Olympique Marseille was sanctioned with the closure of one of its stands, specifically the one usually occupied by the ultras fans, and fined €107,000 (c.$116,000) after those supporters used smoke bombs and laser pointers, among other things.

Ultras replaced by kids for Marseille - Villarreal

Following that decision, it was assumed that Thursday’s Europa League match against Villarreal would be played with an empty stand. However, the French club has found a solution to prevent the area from being completely deserted. UEFA has allowed them to invite 2,000 children to occupy that stand. These kids will be accompanied by around 250 adults (one for every eight children).

Despite having a partially closed stand, the Orange Vélodrome will have a special atmosphere, as is usual in all matches. The main stand will display a spectacular tifo that was authorised yesterday in the meeting held between both teams and UEFA.