Sunday, 19 May 2024

Call for Sanctions as Homophobic Chants Continue to Overshadow French Soccer

French Soccer League

Homophobic chanting by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) fans targeting Marseille players has once again marred the biggest game in French soccer. The incident has led to calls for sanctions to be implemented to address the issue.

Fans’ Homophobic Slurs

Olivier Klein, the inter-ministerial delegate for the fight against racism, anti-Semitism, and anti-LGBTQ+ hatred (Dilcrah), shared a video on Monday of PSG supporters using insulting homophobic slurs aimed at their Marseille rivals. The offensive chants were heard during the game at the Parc des Princes, which PSG won 4-0.

Olivier Klein

“Very shocked by the unbearable homophobic chants heard at the Parc des Princes,” expressed Klein, adding that he intends to ask PSG and the French league authorities to impose sanctions. He also mentioned the possibility of pursuing legal action against the individuals involved.

Condemnation from Officials

French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera also criticized the fans’ behavior and urged PSG to file a legal complaint. She emphasized the need to identify the perpetrators and remove them from the stadiums. Oudea-Castera stated, “It is unthinkable to remain deaf to such hateful and homophobic chants in our stands. Regardless of the rivalry and the stakes involved, they must be fought relentlessly.”

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Previous Sanctions

French clubs have faced fines, and the league’s disciplinary commission has ordered the closure of stands in the past for similar incidents. French law even sanctions anti-gay insults made in public with up to one year’s imprisonment and a fine of 45,000 euros ($47,600).

PSG’s Response

In response to the incident, PSG issued a statement condemning all forms of discrimination and pledged to strengthen its preventive measures against homophobia. They also announced a forthcoming meeting with their partners to address the issue directly.

Long-standing Issue

Homophobic chants have sadly been tolerated for a long time in French league matches, with many club officials failing to take appropriate action. Soccer authorities have struggled to find effective ways of tackling the problem. Following a match between PSG and Marseille at the Parc des Princes four years ago, during which PSG fans used homophobic insults, the French league launched an action plan allowing spectators to report sexist, homophobic, or racist incidents they witness. Unfortunately, the abuse has persisted despite these measures.

FAQs

Q: What actions are being taken to address the homophobic chants in French soccer?

A: Calls for sanctions have been made, and the French disciplinary committee is investigating the case. French law also provides for fines and imprisonment for individuals found guilty of using anti-gay insults in public.

Q: How has PSG responded to the incident?

A: PSG has condemned all forms of discrimination and expressed its commitment to intensify efforts in combating homophobia. The club plans to hold a meeting with partners to discuss the issue further.

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Conclusion

The presence of homophobic chants in French soccer continues to overshadow the game, raising concerns and prompting calls for action. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including fans, clubs, authorities, and the public, to come together to eliminate this hateful behavior from stadiums. Efforts must be made to create an inclusive and accepting environment for all individuals involved in the sport.

For more information about French soccer and other sports news, visit Pesstatsdatabase.