Referee Mathilde Demoncay suffers concussion in Metz‑Fortuna Sittard friendly

On July 25, 2026 a pre‑season friendly between French club FC Metz and Dutch side Fortuna Sittard at the Schlossberg stadium turned violent. After a foul on striker Lequincio Zeefuik, the player was grabbed by his jersey and reacted angrily, prompting a scuffle that involved several players from both teams.

Referee Mathilde Demoncay tried to intervene but was pushed and struck on the head, collapsing on the pitch in front of a banner that read “Respectez l’arbitre” (“Respect the referee”). Medical personnel treated her and later diagnosed a mild concussion. The match resumed and finished 3‑1 to Metz. Fortuna Sittard described the incident as a “remarkable moment,” while FC Metz offered no comment. The episode has sparked discussion about referee safety and possible disciplinary action.