Lille President Protests Officiating, Nabil Bentaleb Intervenes

03 January 2026at21:00

The French Ligue 1 match between Lille and visitors Stade Rennais, played this Saturday evening at the Pierre Mauroy Stadium, witnessed controversial incidents following the 13th-minute red card shown to Lille player Alexsandro.

Lille President Olivier Létang expressed his strong dissatisfaction with referee Eric Wattellier's decisions. He appeared on the pitch from the 26th minute and confronted the referee at halftime, with Algerian player Nabil Bentaleb intervening to de-escalate the situation.

Létang addressed referee Wattellier, stating: "You know what you did: this is a disgrace, this is a scandal." He added: "Take responsibility for your mistakes, that's all," and continued: "You can't even speak calmly!" Sylvain Armand also attempted to restrain Létang.

Létang also declared: "As long as we don't do something every weekend, nothing will change. This is not possible at a certain point."

Reports indicated that Létang also clashed with Rennes Sporting Director Loïc Désiré during the break. Commenting on the events, Rennes coach Habib Beye said: "We must remain calm. We saw what happened with the Lille president."

Q&A

Why did Lille President Olivier Létang confront the referee during the match?

Lille President Olivier Létang confronted referee Eric Wattellier at halftime, protesting decisions, especially the 13th-minute red card shown to Alexsandro, which he labeled a 'disgrace' and 'scandal.'

What was Nabil Bentaleb's role in the confrontation involving Lille's president?

Algerian player Nabil Bentaleb intervened to de-escalate the tense situation when Lille President Olivier Létang confronted referee Eric Wattellier on the pitch at halftime, following controversial incidents.

LOSC Lille

Stade Rennais FC

French Ligue 1