Antihomophobia initiative turns sour in French football
PARIS—What was meant to be a weekend of solidarity against homophobia in Ligue 1 descended into controversy and embarrassment for French football, as players refused to wear campaign symbols, one striker boycotted his team’s match, and a homophobic slur was heard in a stadium tunnel.
Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Nemanja Matic and Le Havre’s Ahmed Hassan concealed the French league’s antihomophobia insignia during Saturday’s fixtures.
Nantes forward Mostafa Mohamed withdrew from his side’s match against Montpellier, citing personal convictions—the third time the Egyptian has opted out of the initiative.
Meanwhile, Lens defender Jonathan Gradit was heard directing a homophobic insult during their game against Monaco.
Warning
The string of incidents prompted France’s new sports minister, Marie Barsacq, to issue a pointed statement on Sunday. “The (French Football) Federation is determined to put this issue on the clubs’ and supporters’ agenda,” Barsacq said.
“Homophobic insults and behavior are no longer acceptable. Society has evolved, and the language in football must change with it. There’s a full range of sanctions available, and they must be applied.”
