Dunkerque will not be able to host their Coupe de France semi-final against PSG at their home ground, Stade Marcel-Tribut, due to security regulations and limited capacity.
The match has been relocated to Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille. Despite the club’s desire to welcome this historic encounter on home soil, the requirements set by the French Football Federation (FFF) and the expected large crowd have made it impossible. Currently competing in Ligue 2, Dunkerque insists that the decision was made in the best interests of the club and its supporters, who will have priority access to ticket sales.
“Since the semi-final draw, we have always prioritized hosting this match at Stade Tribut, our home,” the club’s management explained. “However, the conditions imposed by the FFF, including nearly 2,000 mandatory invitations in addition to the required allocation for over 250 away fans, along with strict security measures due to the large presence of PSG supporters, make this option unfeasible.”
Dunkerque assured fans that all possible alternatives were explored, always keeping their supporters and the team’s chances in mind. “After extensive discussions with all stakeholders, it has been decided that this match will take place at Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille. This decision, although difficult, was made in the best interest of our club and our fans,” stated the current third-place team in Ligue 2.
