France’s Minister of Sports, Amelie Oudea-Castera, has expressed her belief that Ligue 1 clubs should take disciplinary action against players who did not participate in a demonstration of support against homophobia.
However, the players’ union has stated that it was “astonished” by the request made to its members.
Oudea-Castera emphasized the importance of players taking a stand on such issues, stating that they “have to show up” in these situations.
On the other hand, the National Union of Professional Footballers argued that players should not be obligated to convey “collective messages.”
This disagreement regarding player participation led to some Toulouse players opting to miss their game against Nantes on Sunday.
In a statement, the club explained that these players expressed their disagreement with associating their image with the rainbow colors symbolizing the LGBT movement.
The demonstration was organized in support of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, observed on May 17.
Throughout the weekend, Ligue 1 and 2 players wore rainbow-colored numbers on their shirts and posed with banners before matches. Coaches and officials also wore rainbow armbands as a part of this gesture.
Expressing her perspective, Oudea-Castera stated, “I think it is the responsibility of the clubs to take sanctions”.
“During such an operation, which involves all the clubs on the basic subject of non-discrimination, you have to show up.”
One of the players who decided not to participate in the Nantes game was Toulouse and Morocco forward, Zakaria Aboukhlal.
He conveyed his reasons on social media, stating, “Respect is a value that I hold in great esteem. It extends to others, but it also encompasses respect for my own personal beliefs. Hence, I don’t believe I am the most suitable person to participate in this campaign.”