UEFA Clarifies Reasons for Fining French Club Lille Over Chants Against Martinez

G. E (Elbotola)

31 March 2026at13:30

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has clarified that the €17,500 fine imposed on French club Lille was exclusively for offensive chants directed at Aston Villa's Argentine goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez. UEFA denied reports suggesting the penalty was related to a 'tifo' depicting Joan of Arc displayed in the stands.

This clarification from the continental body aimed to correct information that had circulated following the Europa League match between the two teams at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy on March 12.

UEFA confirmed, in statements reported by French newspaper Le Parisien, that the sanction was a result of an 'inappropriate message during a sporting event.' A UEFA spokesperson stated: “The incident and the subsequent penalty imposed on Lille for a message incompatible with a sporting event has nothing to do with the depiction of Joan of Arc,” clarifying that the decision stemmed solely from insulting chants directed at Aston Villa's goalkeeper.

During the match, fans had displayed a large tifo depicting the historical French figure holding a sword, accompanied by the phrase 'The French never die'.

In total, the French club faced fines amounting to €82,750 for multiple infractions during the continental clash. Beyond the chanting penalty, UEFA imposed a €25,000 fine for throwing projectiles, €26,000 for obstructing public passages, €10,000 for delaying the match kick-off, and €4,250 for the use of fireworks. This occurred on a night when Lille was eliminated from the competition's Round of 16 by the English side.

Q&A

Why was French club Lille fined by UEFA?

French club Lille was fined by UEFA for offensive chants directed at Aston Villa's goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, during their Europa League match. UEFA clarified the penalty was specifically for an "inappropriate message," dispelling rumors it related to a tifo display.

What was the total amount of fines Lille received from UEFA?

Lille received a total of €82,750 in fines from UEFA for multiple infractions during their continental clash. These penalties included sanctions for throwing projectiles, obstructing public passages, delaying kick-off, and using fireworks, in addition to the chanting fine.

What misinformation did UEFA correct regarding Lille's fine?

UEFA corrected misinformation suggesting Lille's fine was related to a 'tifo' depicting Joan of Arc. The continental body explicitly stated the penalty stemmed exclusively from offensive chants directed at Aston Villa's goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, during the Europa League match.