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2024-11-04 10:20:00
There are declarations and then there is practice. Othman Nasrou, State Secretary to the Minister of the Interior, asked the Professional Football League on Sunday evening 3 November to explain “because the Saint-Etienne-Strasbourg match was not interrupted” the day before. In a message published on the social network “he told the football authorities [leur] determination a Enough with the homophobic chants».
It was the “Rouge direct” collective that challenged the government on Sunday in a message broadcast on X accompanied by a video of the songs. They are addressed to the Lyonnais, historic rivals of the Stéphanois, while the two teams will meet next Sunday in Lyon. “We ask the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, and the Minister of Sport, Gil Avérous, as well as the Professional Football League to finally act. From Monday new complaints will be filed against LFP and DAZN”wrote the collective.
On 24 October Bruno Retailleau brought together the leaders of French professional football at the Ministry of the Interior, in the presence of Gil Avérous and Othman Nasrou. At the end of this meeting, the Minister of Sport asked the football authorities to strictly apply the FIFA protocol, which provides for a graduation that goes from the suspension of the match to the declaration of a loss by the receiving team in the event of problems. (homophobia, racism, violence, etc.). However, it is difficult to enforce the injunction when the Home Secretary himself has judged it“stop the games” era “very complicated” and it wasn’t “it’s not the right solution” – comments made on the evening of October 24 on RMC.
The government against collective sanctions
In fact, from this date, no Ligue 1 or Ligue 2 match has been interrupted even temporarily, while homophobic chants are regularly heard in stadiums. In 2019, several professional matches were interrupted until the then president of the French Football Federation, Noël Le Graët, asked the referees not to interrupt the game anymore, believing that “The methods [pour] punish constantly [les comportements problématiques]».
Declaring itself against collective sanctions, the government also announced its desire on October 24 “identify sanctions” AND“activate name ticketing”. “Each spectator will need to have a seat with their name on it so they can identify where songs and comments come from and to identify those who are subject to stadium bans.», Gil Avérous then detailed. The measure is expected to come into force by December 31 for PSG, OM and OL, and then gradually come into force in the rest of the Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 stadiums over the course of next year.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Sports Ethics Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning and welcome! Today, we are addressing a pressing issue in the world of sports, particularly football, concerning the recent controversy surrounding homophobic chants at a match between Saint-Etienne and Strasbourg. Joining us is Dr. Clara Beaumont, a prominent sports ethics expert. Clara, thank you for being here.
Dr. Clara Beaumont: Good morning! It’s a pleasure to be part of this important discussion.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right in. The “Rouge direct” collective has publicly challenged the French government and football authorities after a match where homophobic chants were prevalent. Why is this kind of collective action significant in combating issues like homophobia in sports?
Dr. Clara Beaumont: This type of collective action is crucial because it amplifies the voices of those advocating for change. Homophobia in sports is not just a societal issue; it undermines the principles of inclusion and respect that all sports should uphold. When groups like “Rouge direct” call out these behaviors, they not only highlight specific incidents but also push for systemic change at higher levels of governance, like the Professional Football League and the Ministry of Sport.
Time.news Editor: The criticism directed at the government stems from the suggestion by Minister of Sport Gil Avérous to interrupt matches if homophobic chants occur. However, Bruno Retailleau opposed this idea, stating it was “not the right solution.” What are your thoughts on this approach?
Dr. Clara Beaumont: Interrupting matches may seem like a drastic measure, but it draws attention to the issue in a way that words alone cannot. While I understand concerns about disrupting the game, we must prioritize the safety and dignity of all players and fans. A clear stance against such behaviors could signal a zero-tolerance approach, encouraging supporters to rethink their actions.
Time.news Editor: Othman Nasrou, the State Secretary to the Minister of the Interior, has requested an explanation from the Professional Football League for not interrupting the match. How do you see the role of governmental and football authorities in addressing this issue?
Dr. Clara Beaumont: Their role is vital. Football authorities must take proactive steps rather than reactive measures. They should be setting a precedent—implementing effective policies and protocols that punish homophobic behavior. The government’s involvement is equally crucial, as it can facilitate discussions and enforce regulations to foster a safer environment.
Time.news Editor: It’s been mentioned that following the meeting on October 24, the Minister of Sport urged strict adherence to FIFA protocols addressing discrimination. How effective do you think these established protocols are?
Dr. Clara Beaumont: FIFA’s protocols provide a necessary framework, but their effectiveness depends heavily on the commitment of individual leagues and clubs to enforce them. There needs to be education around the protocols, as well as accountability for those who violate them. If clubs and authorities don’t take these guidelines seriously, we risk creating a culture where discriminatory behavior is allowed to persist.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, with rivalries like Saint-Etienne and Lyon intensifying, how can we ensure that the excitement of the game doesn’t lead to an escalation in homophobic or discriminatory behavior?
Dr. Clara Beaumont: Education and culture change are key. Clubs can take a proactive stance by promoting messages of inclusivity and respect leading up to matches. Engaging fans through campaigns can help reshape narratives around rivalries. Ultimately, it requires changes at both the grassroots and professional levels, instilling values that transcend the pitch.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Clara. Your insights certainly shed light on the complex interaction between sports culture, governance, and societal change. We appreciate your perspective on these urgent issues.
Dr. Clara Beaumont: Thank you for having me! It’s vital that we continue these conversations to promote a more inclusive and equitable environment in sports.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely. And to our viewers, thank you for tuning in. Let’s keep the dialogue open and advocate for a positive change in sports and society alike.