Olympique de Marseille and Lille have reported the looting of their official stores amid violent protests across France. The unrest, driven by rising prices and declining public services, has led to arrests and damage to shops in several cities.

Marseille condemned the attack on its store along La Canebiere, the city’s historic main avenue, on Monday. Lille also reported severe vandalism and looting at its outlet on Rue Faidherbe on Saturday.

Marseille store temporarily closed

France witnessed some of its worst unrest in years over the weekend. Thousands of people were arrested, while several shops were looted or damaged during the protests.

On Monday, Marseille authorities banned public gatherings and demonstrations across the city. The restriction runs from midday until 8 p.m. local time following violent protests and looting.

In a statement, Marseille condemned the attack on its store and expressed solidarity with Puma, its retail partner.

“Olympique de Marseille condemns in the strongest possible terms the acts of violence and looting targeting its official store on the Canebiere and expresses its solidarity with its partner Puma, which operates the store,” the club said.

The club said the incident caused significant property damage and forced the store to close temporarily. However, fans can still visit its other official outlets in Marseille.

“These events have caused significant property damage, forcing the club to temporarily close this store to the public. Fans may, however, continue to visit OM’s other official stores in Marseille. The club will inform its fans as soon as conditions allow for a reopening …”

Lille thanks supporters for assistance

Lille confirmed that its store on Rue Faidherbe in the city centre would remain closed until further notice.

The club also thanked employees and members of the public who offered assistance after the incident.

“LOSC would also like to acknowledge and thank everyone who has offered support over the past few hours – first and foremost our store employees, but also the many passersby, fans and non-fans alike, who spontaneously offered their help, a helping hand, and words of comfort,” Lille said on Sunday.

Meanwhile, cleanup operations took place across France on Sunday. The affected cities included Lille, Marseille, Strasbourg and Bordeaux, where a masked group invaded the local prefect’s residence.

Marseille sit ninth in Ligue 1 after seven matches. They will visit Austrian side Sturm Graz in the Europa League on Thursday.

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