“I cannot accept that people say that the FFF carries out religious discrimination”, believes Philippe Diallo

The French Football Federation is encouraging Muslim players who play in France or in the French team to postpone the Ramadan fast, leading to widespread criticism.

“I cannot accept that people say that the FFF carries out religious discrimination”declared this Sunday March 24 on franceinfo the president of the French Football Federation (FFF), Philippe Diallo, regarding the encouragement to Muslim players playing in France or in the French team to postpone the Ramadan fast, leading to numerous criticisms.

“My duty is to ensure a form of neutrality in sporting practice”first explained Philippe Diallo. “The Federation has set a framework, like at school. There cannot be a modification to our schedules, to our organization, which is linked to the implementation of a religious practice, whatever it may be. “

“The Council of State agreed with us”

“I respect everyone’s beliefshe added. It is possible, if we want to fast, so as not to jeopardize the performance or health of athletes, to postpone it.. “No one in the Federation, starting with me, has forbidden anyone to fast”continued the president of the FFF. “I even heard that an official of the Muslim authority said that it was perfectly compatible with practicing high-level sport by suspending one’s fast.”

“Some wanted to attack us before the courts and it turns out that the Council of State agreed with us,” also estimated Philippe Diallo. “When players are selected for the French team, I do not ask them their religion. The trial brought against the Federation is a bad trial, unfair, and based on false foundations”justified the president of the FFF.