The Ligue 1 clash between FC Nantes and Toulouse FC was abandoned after angry home supporters invaded the pitch during chaotic scenes at Stade de la Beaujoire.

The match was halted in the 22nd minute after Nantes ultras lit flares and broke through security barriers, storming onto the field in protest against the club’s relegation from the French top flight. Players and officials from both teams immediately headed down the tunnel as riot police moved in to restore order.

Referee Stéphanie Frappart later confirmed the game would not resume, citing safety concerns. Authorities intervened following a crisis meeting involving police and league officials.

The incident marked a bitter end to Nantes’ 13-year stay in Ligue 1. The club had already been relegated after managing only five wins from 33 league matches this season.

Emotions also ran high around outgoing manager Vahid Halilhodžić, who was taking charge of his final match before retirement. The 73-year-old Bosnian, who returned to the club in March in an attempt to save Nantes from relegation, appeared visibly emotional during the disorder and reportedly had to be restrained as tensions escalated near the dugout.

French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari condemned the scenes, describing the violence and disruption as “unacceptable” while praising the swift response of security personnel and police.