Soccer clubs Marseille and Lille close shops after vandalism and looting in France protests

Marseille and Lille, Ligue 1 clubs in France, said their official stores were vandalized during weekend protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions. Marseille reported “significant damage” to its store on La Canebière, one of the city’s best-known avenues, and said the shop has been temporarily closed. Lille said its city center store suffered “extensive damage and widespread looting,” and will remain closed until further notice. The clubs followed large street demonstrations: over half a million mostly peaceful protesters marched on Saturday, while small groups set fires and looted businesses in Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other cities. Marseille’s prosecutor’s office said 101 people were arrested, including 27 minors.