The French Football Federation (FFF) has come under fire following a leaked email revealing their stance on Muslim players breaking their Ramadan fast during matches. The email, sent to players including Ibrahima Konate and Paul Pogba, stated that there would be no breaks allowed for fasting during games, even at sunset.
Citing a need to uphold the neutrality of the sport, the FFF stated that interruptions to matches for religious practices do not align with the federation’s statutes. This announcement also mentioned the prohibition of headscarves, further emphasizing their stance on maintaining neutrality.
According to reports from Le Parisien, the FFF’s decision is grounded in its article 1.1 and code of ethics, aiming to prevent any actions that could be viewed as proselytizing or propaganda.
Muslim players had been asked to delay fasting during the selection process leading up to EURO 2024 qualifier games against Netherlands on March 24th and Ireland on March 27th.
This move by the FFF stands in stark contrast to the approach taken by the Premier League, which has issued guidelines allowing Muslim players to break their fast during matches. Stars like Mohamed Salah, Riyad Mahrez, and N’Golo Kante, all practicing Muslims, are permitted to break their fasts at sunset during games, with officials tasked to make appropriate arrangements.
Criticism has poured in for the FFF’s decision, with players such as Lucas Digne and clubs like Aston Villa condemning the federation’s stance as outdated and out of touch with modern inclusivity practices. The controversy highlights a broader debate within the sporting world about accommodating religious practices while maintaining the integrity of the game.
