Saint-Etienne opposes government plan to disband supporter groups

Saint-Etienne, a ten-time French champion, is opposing the French government's plan to disband its main supporter groups, the Magic Fans and the Green Angels. The club argues the proposal is politically motivated and ineffective against hooliganism. The government has banned Saint-Etienne supporters from traveling to a recent match against Montpellier due to concerns over potential violence. Authorities cited past incidents involving clashes between fans as justification for the ban. Saint-Etienne emphasized its commitment to combating violence and discrimination in stadiums, stating it will continue to identify and punish those responsible for violent acts.