After the interruption of the match between Bastia and Le Mans on Saturday during the final day of Ligue 2, the LFP disciplinary committee announced on Sunday morning that it is investigating these incidents and will decide on the fate of the Sarthe club on Wednesday, even though their promotion to Ligue 1 seems secure on the field.
Le Mans is in limbo. While the Le Mans players celebrated their promotion to Ligue 1 with their fans last night upon their return from Bastia, the promotion to the elite league after 16 years of absence is not yet officially confirmed. Although they secured the 2nd place in the standings on the evening of the 34th and final day, the match at the Furiani stadium did not reach its conclusion. Due to smoke bombs being thrown onto the field at the end of the match while Le Mans was leading 2-0, the referee permanently interrupted the game.
Decision on Wednesday
Gathered on Sunday morning, the LFP disciplinary committee stated that it is investigating these incidents that also involve the Corsican team, whose relegation to Ligue 3 must also be confirmed. Decisions are expected in three days, after the playoff match on Tuesday evening between Red Star and Rodez. “Given the urgency and to ensure the smooth running of the competitions, the LFP Disciplinary Committee will rule on this matter at its meeting on Wednesday, May 13,” the disciplinary committee said in a statement.
Speaking on RMC’s After Foot on Saturday, Le Mans coach Patrick Videira had no doubt that his team will indeed return to the elite league next season. “We must remain humble. Today we are in Ligue 1 but it also means the relegation of a club (Bastia) and I think we will try to come back quickly to celebrate it with our fans.”
