Ligue 1 Disciplinary Action
In a recent disciplinary action by Ligue 1, both Nemanja Matic of Lyon and Le Havre’s Ahmed Hassan have received two-match suspensions along with an additional two matches suspended for their refusal to display anti-homophobia logos during games.
Details of the Incident
The decision follows a noteworthy incident during the final matchday of the Ligue 1 season on May 17, where Matic, aged 36, obscured the anti-homophobia insignia on his shirt with tape upon entering the game as a substitute during Lyon’s 2-0 victory against Angers. Matic’s contract with Lyon is due to conclude at the end of this month.
Similarly, Hassan, 32, faced identical consequences for a comparable act during Le Havre’s 3-2 win at Strasbourg.
League Response and Awareness Initiatives
Ligue 1 has stated that they have proposed Hassan participate in a campaign within the next six months focused on raising awareness about homophobia in football, which he readily accepted.
Ligue 1 has made it a point to encourage players to wear rainbow-themed apparel and promote related messages during a designated awareness campaign each year. However, the response to this initiative has been inconsistent, with a number of players opting out for personal or religious beliefs.
