Nice (AFP)

OGC Nice will not appeal the sanctions imposed by the disciplinary committee of the Professional Football League for the serious incidents that occurred during the Nice-Marseille derby, Jean-Pierre Rivère, president of the Côte d'Azur club, announced on Friday.

"What happened is unacceptable, intolerable. We deplore these incidents. It was clear in our mind that there was no question of appealing the decision of the disciplinary committee. She did her job meticulously in depth, "explained the leader at a press conference.

"Our duty is to take responsibility for our faults and our first job was to ensure that this does not happen again. We want to draw a line on this event, without forgetting it," he added.

The president of OGC Nice, Jean-Pierre Rivère, after his hearing by the disciplinary committee of the Professional Football League, August 25, 2021 in Paris STEPHANE DE SAKUTIN AFP / Archives

In an unambiguous statement, the Ineos group, owner of the club, then confirmed that the club accepted the sanctions, considered "fair".

"On August 22, we crossed a line that must never be crossed again. We were sanctioned by the Professional Football League for our behavior. And with good reason," wrote Bob Ratcliffe, the group's chairman, in this statement. .

Incidents between players and supporters during the Nice-OM match, August 22, 2021 in Nice Valery HACHE AFP / Archives

"It will cost us between one and four points and could jeopardize the European qualification next season. We accept our sanction because we consider it fair given the circumstances," he added, assuring that Ineos would "never accept" violent or threatening behavior ".

Julien Fournier, the director of football of the OGCN, had for his part previously regretted the withdrawal of two points, including one suspended, decided by the LFP.

"It is a point taken in the pocket of the players. The sanction is undoubtedly at the height of the sad events, but it is heavy and severe for our team. I always have difficulty with the collective sanctions", has t -he explains.

© 2021 AFP