The French Federation issues a controversial decision regarding Muslim players

France – The French Football Federation took controversial measures towards Muslim players who are active in French clubs by preventing them from wearing underpants that cover the knee.

Many Muslim players play in the French League of various levels, whether they are of Arab nationalities or of other nationalities.

Some Muslim players wear underpants in order to cover the part that appears from the knee above the thigh (in order to cover the private parts according to the teachings of the Islamic religion), and this has been happening for years, whether in French Premier League matches or in amateur leagues, and this is also allowed in various leagues. the world.

Although this does not completely affect the appearance of the players or their technical or physical abilities, the French Federation argues that wearing (extra) underwear represents clear visible signs of belonging to any religion or sect, which contradicts the principle of neutrality of the sports field, as the Federation fears… Wearing these clothes may be used to raise religious or ethnic tensions between players and fans.

The French Federation indicated, through an official statement published by local media yesterday, Monday, that players who are active in amateur leagues in France will be allowed to wear pants only if they obtain a license from the medical directorate at the federation level, or if the weather is very cold and after submitting a medical file. The complete document includes: a certificate from a doctor, documents supporting the certificate, an expert report or a medical photograph.

The French Federation also decided to prevent players from wearing things that cover the neck during amateur league matches, except in exceptional cases, and after obtaining the approval of the Medical Directorate at the federal level as well.

The French Football Federation sparked widespread controversy last Ramadan, by refusing to allow fasting Muslim players to rest during matches in order to break their fast when the Maghrib call to prayer came, similar to what happens in other European leagues.

Source: Instant Foot + Agencies