French strike could leave Rennes-Olympiacos without a date

The Europa League tie between Rennes and Olympiacos, scheduled for Thursday 5 November at 21:00, may not go ahead on that date, according to RMC Sport. The reason is a general strike called by French unions for that day, with large demonstrations planned across the country.

The prefecture of Ille-et-Vilaine has told the club that all security forces will be deployed to handle the protests, so no police officers, gendarmes or CRS units will be available for the match. In Rennes, demonstrations often end in clashes, and there was violence and looting at earlier protests.

Security is also a concern around the Greek fans. Olympiacos supporters were banned at the last minute from travelling to the match against Marseille on 15 October, which ended 0-1.

Stade Rennais is negotiating with UEFA. The options include bringing the match forward to Wednesday 4 November, postponing it or playing it on neutral ground. A decision is expected early next week.