French football club, Nice, has issued a warning to its supporters regarding their travel plans to Moldova for the upcoming Europa Conference League match against Sheriff, the national champion of the separatist Transnistria region. The advisory was prompted by the unrest in the country, with authorities blaming Russia for attempting to destabilize the government.
- Moldovan Authorities Exclude Public from the Game
In light of concerns that the match could be used to carry out actions against the government, the Moldovan authorities have excluded the public from attending the game. Recent protests against the government involved members of the political party that supports Russian interests.
- Nice Urges Fans to Refrain from Traveling to Moldova
Given the security situation in Moldova, Nice has advised its fans not to travel, citing the situation as “unfavorable, to say the least.” However, UEFA has approved the match to take place with fans in the stadium, despite the security concerns.
- Sheriff Plays Home Games in Chisinau
As a precautionary measure, Sheriff has played all home games in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova. The club is based in the city of Tiraspol, near the Ukrainian border.
- Nice Offers Refunds for Fans Who Bought Tickets
As a gesture of goodwill, Nice has offered refunds to fans who have already purchased tickets for the match in case the game is postponed or played behind closed doors.
- Moldova Seeks to Align with the EU
Moldova, a former Soviet republic with a population of 2.6 million, has sought to align itself with the European Union since Russia invaded Ukraine.