Adrien Rabiot, the 29-year-old Paris Saint-Germain-trained midfielder now playing for Olympique de Marseille, was targeted by chants and banners on Sunday evening during the match between the two teams at the Parc des Princes. The insults drew a comment from Philippe Diallo, President of the French Football Federation, to AFP.
Diallo “such behavior should have no place in soccer or anywhere else.”
“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the abusive banners and chants seen and heard at the Parc des Princes. In particular, the insults hurled at a player and his family by irresponsible supporters are disgraceful, shameful and revolting. I naturally give them my full support in condemning such behavior, which should have no place in soccer or anywhere else.”
It’s understandable that insults upset people, that there should be reactions, and it wouldn’t be illogical for there to be sanctions. The mentality in soccer could evolve, tending towards less tension. The problem, however, is that these reactions only occur when such remarks are made at the Parc des Princes.
Other stadiums, or clubs, attract far fewer reactions. Perhaps because it’s less newsworthy. But it’s the only way to bring about change. Asserting yourself for a few days a year won’t bring about anything.
