Toulouse exclude players who disagree with being associated with rainbow colors representing LGBT movement

2023-05-15 13:53

Toulouse exclude players who disagree with being associated with rainbow colors representing LGBT movement

The Toulouse club said on Sunday several players had been pulled from their Ligue 1 squad against Nantes for refusing to link their names to a gesture widely supported by the Ligue 1 league against homophobic discrimination.


Toulouse said in a statement: "Some first-team players expressed disagreement that their image should be associated with the rainbow colors representing the LGBT movement. Respecting the personal choice of the players, after many exchanges, Toulouse Football Club decided to release these players. Excluded from the game."


Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 players were asked to wear rainbow numbers on their shirts this week in support of Wednesday's International Day Against Homophobia, Transgender and Bisexuality.


Toulouse and Morocco striker Zakaria Abkhral has expressed his reluctance to play. He tweeted: "I have decided not to participate in today's game. Respect is a value that I take very seriously. This value not only applies to others, but also respect for my personal beliefs. Therefore, I do not think it is suitable for me to participate in this Activity."


Brest boss Eric Roy said the event should not be held at the end of the season, arguing that some players not involved could be decisive in the relegation battle.


Roy said after his side's 15th-placed win over troubled Auxerre: "This anti-homophobia day arrangement is disastrous. You can see some players have a problem with it. Everyone speaks freely. Own opinion. Personally I have no problem with it. But some players might have a problem with it. Well, you shouldn't schedule this at this time when you know some players are fighting to avoid relegation Events. You can do it in December or September."