A FOOTBALL stadium in France has been evacuated after being engulfed in smoke by a huge fire in its fans’ bar.
The match was originally suspended but later officially abandoned as players were rushed off the pitch during the first half for their safety.
US Orleans’ third division clash with Valenciennes was called off at 1-1 and fans were ordered to leave the Stade de la Source.
Video footage posted to social media showed smoke spreading out of the refreshments area due to what appears to be a kitchen fire.
The pitch quickly became covered in thick, toxic fumes as fans – many while covering their noses – climbed down from their seats.
Other spectators, including children, could be seen running to safety.
The blaze was raging by the time firefighters arrived on the scene with shocked supporters watching on from a safe distance.
The Championnat National’s official X account wrote: “Match interrupted between Orleans and Valenciennes.
“The fire was put out but the match will not resume tonight. Strength to all supporters present on site and at the club.”
One hour after the fire first broke out, a fan group informed fellow supporters that there had been no casualties.
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US Orleans made the perfect start in front of their home supporters, with Fahd El Khoumisti converting from the spot inside three minutes.
But they were pegged back midway through the first period when Nick Venema equalised.
Emergency services had been called earlier in the match after a Valenciennes supporter fell from the stands, according to reports.
The incident was not related to the fire, reports regional French media outlet France Bleu.
