Rugby match delayed after fire spotted in stadium

The situation unfolded shortly after the start of the second half when part of the stadium’s lighting suddenly failed. Moments later, smoke was spotted rising from the base of the presidential stand near the main entrance.

Initial reports from the scene indicated that an electrical transformer located at the foot of a lighting pylon had overheated and caught fire. Stadium staff and stewards quickly secured the area and began evacuating spectators seated nearby.

As a precaution, the referee halted the match to allow firefighters to intervene safely and to eliminate any potential risks linked to the stadium’s electrical system. Both teams were instructed to remain off the field while emergency crews dealt with the damaged transformer.

Around 1,500 spectators from the surrounding section were evacuated while municipal police, stadium security personnel, and firefighters worked to bring the situation under control.

Roughly thirty minutes after smoke was first reported, stadium officials confirmed that the fire had been extinguished. Following final safety checks, the match resumed shortly afterward.

Although no injuries were reported, the unexpected incident turned an otherwise routine Pro D2 fixture into a memorable evening at Michel-Bendichou for both players and supporters.