Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

PSG fan dies after attack by own fans

Thursday 18 March 2010 13:11 GMT
Comments

A Paris St Germain fan attacked by supporters of his own club has died after weeks in a coma.

The 38-year-old unnamed man passed away late last night after being involved in street clashes before the match against arch rivals Marseille on February 28, which PSG lost 3-0.

French sports minister Rama Yade believes news of the death means PSG have reached a crossroads.

She said in a statement: "The club's survival is at stake.

"The worst has happened. Passions transformed into sordid, senseless, murderous rage.

"Love of the team jersey has become hate for the other, hate for the sport, hate for life.

"It is a victory for barbarism and a defeat for sport, fraternity and civilisation.

"Everyone should be concerned, first and foremost the leaders of all clubs.

"This may take time but our resolve will not falter."

PSG have banned their fans from away games for the foreseeable future while this weekend's game against Nice will be played behind closed doors following trouble involving Nice fans in their game against Monaco on January 30.

The parents of the deceased have called for calm following their son's death.

In a statement they said: "All those who considered themselves attached to our son should show calm, restraint and dignity in the expression of their emotion."

Four people were arrested yesterday in connection with the death.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in