Brest FC Players and Fans Resist Champions League Venue Change

Following their qualification for the Champions League knockout stages, Stade Brestois has considered relocating their home matches to the Stade de France. However, this proposal has met with resistance from both players and supporters.

The team has been playing their group stage matches at Stade de la Roudourou in Guingamp, including a recent 1-0 victory over PSV. Team captain Brendan Chardonnet, 29, expressed a preference for remaining in Brittany, citing convenience for fans, friends, and family.

Supporters have also voiced their opposition, with a banner at a recent match stating, “We don’t want the Stade de France.” This sentiment reflects a desire to maintain the team’s connection to its local roots and fanbase.

Despite these preferences, the decision may ultimately be out of the team’s hands. UEFA standards for Champions League knockout matches may rule out continued use of Stade de la Roudourou.

Brest’s success in the competition has been notable, with the team currently undefeated in their three European matches in Guingamp. They sit seventh in the table, just above last season’s runners-up Borussia Dortmund, in position for automatic qualification to the round of 16.

The team’s final group stage match, scheduled for January 29th against defending champions Real Madrid, will take place at Stade de la Roudourou. The venue for their subsequent knockout round matches, should they progress, remains to be determined.