2024-10-30 21:44:00
The LFP announced on Wednesday the partial closure of the Auteuil stand for one match following homophobic chants sung by the Ultra Paris Collective during the match against Strasbourg.
The Auteuil stand at the Parc des Princes will be partially closed to sanction homophobic chants sung by Paris fans against Olympique de Marseille during the PSG-Strasbourg match, the LFP announced on Wednesday. The sanction takes effect from November 5th and the Auteuil stand will therefore be completely open to welcome Lens on Saturday (17th) of the tenth matchday. The league’s disciplinary committee sanctioned PSG last year for similar acts by completely closing the stands for one match and one match suspended.
On 19 October, during the reception of the eighth matchday (4-2) in Strasbourg, the Collectif Ultras Paris (CUP) sang a homophobic song against the Marseilles for about ten minutes, eight days earlier “classic”. These slogans were echoed by much of the Parc des Princes, and the stadium announcer intervened twice to stop them, in vain. Contacted by AFP on Wednesday evening, CUP and PSG did not immediately react.
Ban homophobia from stadiums
This was announced five days after the match by the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau “two leaders” singing had been “identified”. But to date they have not been arrested. The investigation was entrusted to the Personal Crime Repression Brigade (BRDP). After these chants, PSG “reaffirmed its firm commitment against all forms of discrimination, including homophobia”indicated the club to AFP, adding to take “all necessary measures, before and during matches, to ensure that the Parc des Princes remains an inclusive place for all”.
Last week, a meeting dedicated to this topic took place at the Ministry of the Interior with the French football authorities (FFF and LFP) and the Minister of Sport, Gil Avérous. The latter recalled that in case of homophobic songs the meeting could be interrupted. This possibility appears in a FIFA circular dating back to the 2019-20 season. But this statement was criticized by Bruno Retailleau, who was in favor of aa “temporary interruption”. “If there are homophobic chants – he said – the sports movement must assume its responsibilities, a temporary interruption is needed. Stopping matches is very complicated, it’s not the right solution.”
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Isabelle Montclair, Sports Sociologist
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Montclair. The recent decision by the LFP to impose a partial closure of the Auteuil stand at Parc des Princes due to homophobic chants has sparked a lot of discussion. What are your immediate thoughts on this sanction?
Dr. Isabelle Montclair (IM): Thank you for having me. This decision is a significant step from the LFP, signaling that homophobic behavior will not be tolerated in football. It’s a crucial moment for both fans and clubs to reflect on the culture that surrounds the sport.
TNE: The chants originated from the Collectif Ultras Paris during a high-profile match against Strasbourg. Given that similar incidents have occurred before, do you think the response is adequate, or should harsher penalties be considered?
IM: It’s a complex issue. While the sanction might seem light in comparison to the seriousness of homophobia, it does send a message. However, there’s a larger cultural problem at play. Harsher penalties might deter such behavior, but we also need educational initiatives within fan communities to foster a more inclusive atmosphere.
TNE: You mentioned cultural issues. How deeply ingrained is homophobic sentiment in football culture, particularly among fan groups like the Ultras?
IM: Unfortunately, homophobia is deeply embedded in many segments of football culture, often celebrated as part of a misguided sense of masculinity. The Ultras often pride themselves on their vocality and loyalty, which can manifest in toxic ways, including discrimination. Educational interventions aimed at challenging these notions are critical.
TNE: What role can clubs like PSG play in changing this narrative?
IM: Clubs have a significant influence. They can lead by example—by explicitly condemning such behavior, providing training for fans, and involving LGBTQ+ groups in dialogue. Campaigns like “Rainbow Laces” in the UK demonstrate how clubs can take an active stance in promoting inclusivity.
TNE: It’s interesting that during the match, even the stadium announcer attempted to intervene, yet the chants persisted. What does this say about the environment in the stadium?
IM: That’s telling. It shows that despite formal structures meant to uphold decorum, the emotional intensity of fandom can override them. This collective behavior often feels like a performance, where fans might think they are expected to participate in these toxic chants. Breaking that cycle is essential, and it requires both top-down and bottom-up efforts.
TNE: Looking ahead, do you believe fan attitudes can change?
IM: Absolutely, but it will take time and concerted effort. The younger generations are increasingly more accepting and aware of social issues, including homophobia. Engaging those voices, creating campaigns that resonate with fans, and fostering an environment where inclusivity is celebrated rather than ridiculed is vital for change.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Montclair, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. It seems like the road to inclusivity in football will be challenging but necessary.
IM: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep this conversation going, not just in football but across all aspects of society.