In 2026, France has seen a rise in unauthorized encampments of travelers' caravans on municipal football pitches.
Timeline of incidents
- May 2026: In Saint-Pantaléon-de-Larche (Corrèze), about 50 caravans occupied land next to the stadium. Mayor Eddy Marcos called it an illegal intrusion and filed a complaint. Another 100 caravans were expected. Residents said they had notified authorities in winter but received no response.
- 24 May 2026: In Saint-Germain-Lespinasse, around 100 caravans took over the football field. Mayor Christophe Loppin said the municipality "tolerates this occupation" and offered an alternative site in Mably with 82 spaces, but the travelers refused due to its poor condition. The caravans were expected to leave by the end of the week.
- Early 2026: In Seignelay (Yonne department), dozens of caravans illegally set up on the municipal football field. Authorities said they could not quickly evict them because the field was easily accessible.
- 19 July 2026: In Jonquières-Saint-Vincent (Gard department), about 50 caravans occupied the football field. Mayor Jean-Marie Fournier said eviction was impossible before 2 August, depriving locals of access to the sports facility.
- Saint-Lattier: About 15 caravans occupied the training pitch of the municipal stadium. After negotiations with authorities and gendarmerie, the travelers agreed to leave within two weeks and not damage the facility.
The incidents highlight a shortage of equipped stopping areas for travelers as required by the departmental plan.
