Marseille, France: What Newcastle Fans Can Expect from the New Safety Protocols for Champions League Away Day

Published on October 18, 2025

Newcastle United fans are gearing up for a highly anticipated Champions League away fixture in Marseille, France, but the club’s travel arrangements come with new safety and security measures. In light of recent travel bans imposed by French authorities on Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters, the Toon Army is now facing additional instructions for their trip to the Velodrome Stadium on November 25. As the French authorities take a cautious approach to stadium security, Newcastle United fans are being advised to follow strict protocols to ensure both their safety and the safety of the matchday environment.

French Authorities Implement New Travel Restrictions for Football Fans

Following incidents with Ajax supporters last month and Maccabi Tel Aviv fans before their clash at Aston Villa, French authorities have introduced a series of regulations designed to manage fan movement and maintain public safety during international football events. The French government has already banned Ajax supporters from traveling to Marseille, citing security concerns. Although no such decision has been made regarding Newcastle United’s supporters, safety measures for their trip have already been put in place.

For Newcastle United fans traveling to Marseille, the club has shared the initial information regarding the safety measures, ensuring that fans have ample time to prepare for the trip. These arrangements, which include designated travel points and strict Metro travel guidelines, will be implemented by local authorities in Marseille to ensure a safe and secure matchday experience.

Key Travel and Safety Measures for Newcastle United Fans

For the Champions League clash in Marseille, Newcastle United fans will be given a detailed set of instructions. Fans traveling to Marseille are required to meet at a designated meeting point, Place de la Joliette. From this location, all supporters will need to use the Metro system to reach Stade Velodrome. This measure is mandatory, and no exemptions will be made except for wheelchair users, who will receive further assistance directly from the club following ticket purchase.

Key Details of the Travel Protocols Include:

• Designated Meeting Point:
  Fans will gather at Place de la Joliette, where they will be given further instructions on their journey.
• Metro Travel:
  Mandatory travel via the Metro system from Joliette Station to Stade Velodrome. Only official matchday tickets will grant access to the Metro, ensuring that only those with tickets can travel to the stadium.
• Escorted Walk:
  Supporters will be escorted from the Metro station to the stadium on foot, a short, five-minute walk. This ensures the safety and proper guidance of fans on the way to the ground.
• Post-Match Plan:
  After the match, supporters will be held inside the stadium for a minimum of 40 minutes. This time will be used to control the movement of fans and prevent any potential incidents. Concession stands and toilets will remain open during this period, after which fans will be escorted back to the Metro station for their return journey.
• Return Journey:
  The return journey will take supporters back to the original meeting point at Place de la Joliette, though fans should anticipate delays during the journey back.

Impact on Business Travel and Tourism

While the primary focus of these measures is fan safety, they also highlight the impact that large-scale events, such as football matches, can have on local tourism and business activities. For business travelers visiting Marseille around this time, it is important to be aware of potential delays or disruptions, particularly in the vicinity of the stadium and metro stations.

For tourists planning to visit Marseille for non-football related reasons, the city remains an attractive destination, with its vibrant culture, historical sites, and Mediterranean atmosphere. However, those visiting during the Champions League match should plan their trips carefully, keeping in mind the safety restrictions and potential for increased crowd activity in the city center.

Business Travel Tips for Marseille:

• Plan for Transportation Delays:
  Given the influx of fans attending the Champions League match, business travelers should expect some congestion around key transport hubs such as the Metro and the area around Stade Velodrome.
• Hotel Bookings:
  Hotels in the city center may be in high demand during this period. It is advisable for business travelers to book their accommodations early to avoid last-minute price hikes or availability issues.
• Alternative Routes:
  Fans and travelers should be aware of possible changes in Metro routes due to the safety measures. Checking live transport updates through official channels before heading out is crucial for smooth travel.

Additional Information for Tourists Visiting Marseille

For tourists traveling to Marseille, whether to attend the match or explore the city, there are plenty of exciting activities and landmarks to enjoy. Known for its stunning coastal views, rich maritime history, and dynamic arts scene, Marseille offers something for everyone.

• Top Attractions in Marseille:
  • The Old Port (Vieux-Port): A picturesque harbor area with plenty of restaurants, shops, and scenic walks.
  • Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: This iconic hilltop church offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Château d’If: A fortress and former prison located on a small island just off the coast, made famous by the novel The Count of Monte Cristo.
  • Calanques National Park: A stunning series of limestone cliffs and turquoise inlets perfect for hiking and water sports.
• Best Time to Visit Marseille:
  The ideal time to visit is during the spring or early autumn when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, tourists should be mindful of special events such as the Champions League match, which can lead to large crowds and changes to travel schedules.
• Local Cuisine:
  No visit to Marseille is complete without trying its famous seafood dishes. Bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew, and pastis, a locally produced anise-flavored spirit, are must-try experiences.

Conclusion: What to Expect for Newcastle United Fans in Marseille

For Newcastle United supporters traveling to Marseille for their Champions League match, the safety measures in place are designed to ensure a smooth and secure experience. With strict travel protocols, designated meeting points, and escorted routes to and from Stade Velodrome, fans can feel confident that their safety is a priority. However, it’s crucial for all travelers, whether for business or leisure, to plan ahead, stay informed, and remain flexible, especially given the potential disruptions due to the large-scale event.

As the match approaches, more detailed information will be shared, but fans are encouraged to follow all instructions closely to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Marseille.