French authorities extend ban on traveling soccer fans

PARIS --

French authorities have extended a measure banning away fans from attending soccer matches in the wake of the Paris attacks.

The French football league says all matches scheduled for this weekend in the professional leagues will be played without traveling fans in accordance with a decision taken by interior ministry.

The league adds that the measure will be implemented during Champions League, Europa League, French league and French Cup matches until mid-December ''because of a lack of availability of security forces under the emergency state and the organization'' of a major climate change meeting in Paris from Nov. 30-Dec. 11.

Security checks including metal detectors screenings, search and seizure of bags and body pat-downs have been reinforced at stadiums after attacks targeting the Stade de France, bars, restaurants and a concert hall in downtown Paris on Nov. 13.