The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has handed one-match suspensions to four Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) players – Randal Kolo Muani, Ousmane Dembele, Achraf Hakimi, and Layvin Kurzawa – for their involvement in anti-gay chants during a recent Ligue 1 match against Marseille at the Parc des Princes.
Reports from French sports daily L’Equipe suggest that PSG players were also heard participating in offensive chants during the game.
The LFP’s decision means that these players will serve their suspensions starting from October 10th.
Additionally, the Auteuil stand at the Parc des Princes will be closed for two matches, with one of those matches being a suspended penalty.
In response to these sanctions, PSG released a statement expressing their disappointment with what they consider an excessive and collective punishment.
They believe that this decision may undermine the club’s ongoing efforts in dialogue and prevention involving various associations, institutions, and fans. Despite their disagreement, PSG stated that they would not appeal the LFP’s ruling.
Subsequently, the players issued apologies, acknowledging that they allowed themselves to get carried away by the excitement of their victory.
They emphasized their awareness of the impact of their words and actions on the public, particularly on younger fans. The players sincerely regretted their inappropriate behavior and pledged to strive for better conduct in the future.
