Share

Tottenham fans attacked

London - Three Tottenham fans were injured after being attacked at a pub in Lyon by about 50 masked thugs ahead of a Europa League match against the French club.

Tottenham said on Thursday that arrests were made relating to the incident that occurred late Wednesday at the Smoking Dog, a pub popular among British people in the French city.

"Three fans sustained minor injuries and received prompt medical assistance," Tottenham said.

It is the second time in three months that Tottenham fans have been targeted before a European game. In November, seven people were injured - one with a knife wound - following an apparent anti-Semitic attack at a pub in Rome.

Tottenham is known for having a large Jewish fan base from north London.

Tottenham officials have played down the latest incident, saying it isn't comparable to the one in Rome and that no serious injuries were sustained.

"Spurs officials and stewards will be in the city throughout the day, along with matchday French police ahead of kickoff," the club said.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said "it was aware of reports of an attack on British nationals in France."

Like French club Paris Saint-Germain, Lyon has a far-right contingent among its fans, some of whom form part of a group called "Bad Gones."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE