A serious accident disrupted the preparations of Luxembourg’s U-21 national football team on Thursday evening after their team bus overturned in Brittany, leaving eight people injured.
The squad had been en route to Lorient for their Euro 2027 qualifier against France when the incident occurred on the RN24 between Rennes and Lorient, near the town of Languidic. According to French media, the driver reportedly lost consciousness, causing the bus to veer off the road and tip into a ditch.
Emergency services responded in large numbers, with around 50 firefighters dispatched to the scene shortly after 8 p.m. The bus was found lying on its side, carrying 32 people along with the driver. Firefighters confirmed that none of the injured were in life-threatening condition, but several were evacuated to nearby hospitals.
The Luxembourg Football Federation (FLF) stated that five players were hospitalized with cuts and bruises, while the driver also received medical attention. The remaining passengers were transferred by gendarmerie bus to a local community hall.
FLF Secretary General Joël Wolff told L’essentiel that the players were deeply shaken: “They are upset, and we will try not to play. Some suffered shocks, and it’s difficult to compete in these conditions.”
The accident comes as Luxembourg’s U-21s were set to face the French youth team on Friday evening. The FLF has already requested UEFA to postpone the match, with a decision expected soon. Meanwhile, an investigation into the causes of the crash has been opened by the Languidic gendarmerie.
This is not the first time tragedy has disrupted youth football fixtures in the region. Similar travel-related incidents in recent years have raised concerns about player safety during international competitions.
For now, the priority remains the well-being of the young players, with both federation officials and supporters relieved that the consequences were not more severe.
Read More: Accident de bus: l'équipe espoir du Luxembourg se renverse en Bretagne - L'essentiel
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