Group of PSG players including Ousmane Dembele facing sanctions over anti-Marseille chanting after thumping in win in Le Classique – homophobic chants also heard from stands

Four Paris Saint-Germain players have recently found themselves embroiled in controversy after an alleged offensive chant directed towards Marseille fans following their Classique victory on Sunday evening. The players in question are Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, Achraf Hakimi, and Layvin Kurzawa. Reports suggest that they were heard shouting a chant that translates to, “Marseillais, go f*ck your mothers,” as they celebrated the team’s impressive 4-0 win.

Footage of the incident, shared on social media by Free Ligue 1, captured the four players enthusiastically jumping and chanting, while the rest of the PSG squad chose not to participate. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, and there are indications that the players involved could face disciplinary action.

In addition to the potential consequences for the players themselves, PSG fans are also facing potential sanctions for alleged homophobic chants directed at the opposing team during the match. According to L’Equipe, these chants lasted for nearly 15 minutes and fall under the French Football Association’s definition of discrimination.

The offensive language and discriminatory behavior displayed by both the players and the fans have led to criticism of both Paris Saint-Germain and the FFF (French Football Federation). Olivier Klein, the inter-ministerial delegate for the fight against racism, anti-Semitism, and anti-LGBT hatred (DILCRAH), expressed his strong disapproval in a social media post. He was “very shocked by the unbearable homophobic chants heard at the Parc des Princes during [the game].”

In response to the incident, Klein has asserted that he will engage in discussions with the club and the FFF, and has not ruled out the possibility of pursuing legal action. Amelie Oudea-Castea, the Minister of Sports and Olympics, has also taken action by coordinating with France football’s discriminatory commission. It is expected that an investigation into the chants will be opened. Oudea-Castea further called on the club to identify the specific perpetrators within the group and take appropriate measures, including banning them from stadiums.

In light of these events, PSG has released a statement acknowledging the issue and promising to intensify their efforts in preventing and combating homophobia. The club has expressed its commitment to addressing this important matter and intends to collaborate with various partners to address the issue effectively in the days to come.