Supporters of MC Alger flooded the streets of Algiers with red flares and fireworks on June 6, 2026, to celebrate a championship victory [1].
The event marks a significant milestone for the club and its massive fanbase, reflecting the deep intersection of sports and national identity in Algeria.
Ultras of the Mouloudia Club d'Alger took to the capital to commemorate the club's 10th Algerian championship title [1]. The celebrations transformed the city's landscape, as supporters used pyrotechnics to tint the urban center in the club's signature red color [1].
However, the festivities were marred by a tragedy at the 5-Juillet-1962 stadium. A barrier collapsed during the events, leading to a chaotic scene that resulted in numerous casualties [2].
Reports on the death toll vary between sources. One report said that one person died following the collapse [2]. A separate report said that three people died and more than 80 people were injured in the incident [3].
These celebrations and the subsequent stadium accident highlight the volatility of high-stakes sporting events in the region. The contrast between the widespread joy in the streets and the sudden disaster at the stadium underscores the safety challenges associated with large-scale fan gatherings, a recurring issue in regional football culture.
Local authorities and club officials have not yet released a consolidated final report on the stadium casualties, but the event has cast a shadow over the club's historic achievement [2, 3].
“Algiers was bathed in red to celebrate the Mouloudia”
The celebration of MC Alger's 10th title demonstrates the immense cultural power of football in Algeria, where club loyalty often transcends sport. However, the conflicting reports of casualties following a barrier collapse at the 5-Juillet-1962 stadium point to systemic infrastructure failures and the inherent risks of managing 'ultra' fan crowds in aging venues.




