Corsican Derby to be Played Behind Closed Doors Amidst Security Concerns
The highly anticipated Regional 2 football championship match between USC Corte and AC Ajaccio on December 21, 2025, will be played without spectators, officials announced Thursday. The decision follows heightened tensions surrounding previous encounters between the two teams and a concerted effort to ensure public safety.
Rising Tensions Prompt Unprecedented Security Measures
The match, scheduled for 2:30 p.m. at the Santos Manfredi stadium in Corte, has been deemed a “sensitive” event due to escalating conflicts during AC Ajaccio’s recent trips to Haute-Corse for league play. In response, a collaborative effort involving state services, the municipality of Corte, the Corsican Football League, both clubs, and local police has resulted in a comprehensive security plan.
“This collective mobilization results in the implementation of appropriate measures,” a senior official stated, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The most significant of these measures is the decision by the Mayor of Corte to close the stadium to fans.
Strict Restrictions Imposed on Match Day
Beyond the closed-door policy, the Prefect of Haute-Corse has enacted a series of administrative restrictions within a designated perimeter encompassing the Santos Manfredi stadium and the Corte train station. These measures, effective from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on December 21, 2025, include:
- A prohibition on any individual identifying as or behaving like an AC Ajaccio supporter from traveling to or parking within the town of Corte.
- A ban on the possession, transport, or use of firecrackers, smoke bombs, pyrotechnic devices, explosives, and flammable materials in the vicinity of the stadium and station. Violators face criminal penalties under articles 322-11-1 of the penal code and L332-8 of the sports code.
- A prohibition on possessing or using any object that could be considered a weapon, as defined by article 132-75 of the penal code, around the Santos Manfredi stadium and Corte station.
Prioritizing Public Order During Holiday Season
The Prefect of Haute-Corse underscored the importance of respecting the closed-door decree and maintaining public order, particularly given the anticipated influx of visitors to Corte for the annual Christmas Market. “Everyone’s responsibility is essential for this meeting to take place in the best conditions,” the Prefect stated.
Law enforcement will be heavily present to enforce the implemented measures and address any instances of inappropriate or violent behavior. The Prefect expressed gratitude to the Mayor of Corte, the clubs, the Corsican Football League, and all security personnel for their commitment to ensuring a safe and well-managed event.
The focus remains on delivering a secure environment for the match and protecting the tranquility of Corten residents during the holiday period.
