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Hérault: the approval of a Sète football club withdrawn for community practices
The prefect of Hérault withdrew the approval of the Sète Olympique Football Club on the grounds of community practices. The club, which refutes any religious communitarianism, has taken legal action against the prefect’s order, and a hearing will take place on May 16.
(France 2)
The prefect of Hérault withdrew the approval of the Sète Olympique Football Club on the grounds of community practices. The club, which refutes any religious communitarianism, has taken legal action against the prefect’s order, and a hearing will take place on May 16.
The Sète Olympique Football Club (Hérault) presented, on its jerseys, a logo with a religious sign. It was displayed for several years. The prefect therefore decided to withdraw the association’s approval. An inspection was carried out in June 2023, and revealed shortcomings. François-Xavier Lauch, prefect of Hérault, details: “On returning, the state services found prayer rugs. (…) I do not believe that sports clubs, in our country, are there to do anything other than sport.”
A change of logo
In the streets of the city, some residents seem shocked. One of them said to himself “quite” agree with the prefect. A few days after the inspection, the club changed its logo. It no longer presents any religious sign. For one of the club’s coaches, the prefect’s decision is incomprehensible. He refutes all communitarianism and all proselytism. According to the club’s lawyer, anyone can play there, regardless of religion or gender. The club challenged the prefect’s order in court. A hearing will take place on May 16.
