Habib Beye speaks out on rainbow shirt controversy: “like anti-racism and all causes, we should represent them nobly.”

The campaign against homophobia in Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 has sparked controversy, particularly due to several players opting not to wear the rainbow jersey. Since then, several prominent figures in French football have voiced their opinions on the matter, including Habib Beye. The Red Star manager and Canal+ pundit shared his thoughts on the Canal Football Club this Sunday.

“Personally, I believe that, like with anti-racism and all causes, we should represent them in a nobly. We should be bearers of these messages.” Beye that added however that “You have to respect their personal beliefs, even if you don’t agree with them. It is difficult to criticise them, because we do not know these people. I do not share their position, because we must represent all noble causes. And this one is necessary in the world in which we live”.

In observance of the upcoming International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia, Ligue 1 featured a special initiative during this past weekend’s matches. Players across the league wore shirts adorned with rainbow numbers, while managers and captains donned rainbow armbands.

However, the league-wide campaign against homophobia faced resistance, as a group of Toulouse players and Nantes striker Mostafa Mohamed chose not to participate in Sunday’s match between the two teams, objecting to wearing a shirt with a rainbow pattern.

GFFN | George Boxall

Photo Credit: Bazil Fleury – @icietailleurs55 on Instagram.