Lille-Lens: Lens supporters banned from travelling by their own club

RC Lens has banned its own supporters from travelling to Friday's derby at Lille as punishment for misconduct during the Champions League trip to Bruges.

RC Lens has closed its away allocation at Lille for Friday's 20:45 kick-off, preventing any of its supporters from attending the Nord derby. The club announced the decision in an email to supporter groups, citing behaviour during the Champions League away match at Bruges that drew criticism from both UEFA and the club's hierarchy.

The decision represents a strong disciplinary measure by Lens management. While the club is taking unilateral action, authorities were also considering imposing a travel ban due to the security context in France. Lens faces separate disciplinary proceedings before the LFP Commission for incidents at Troyes involving flares, and before UEFA for the Bruges events.

Lens, currently seventh in Ligue 1 after an impressive comeback win against Paris FC, will face LOSC without their travelling support.