PARIS: The French Football Federation has rejected requests for iftar breaks during matches in Ramadan for Muslim players to break their fast.
According to Azernews, the federation stated that pausing matches, even for a minute, during the holy month could disrupt the pace of the game, emphasizing its commitment to neutrality among all players. This decision aligns with their stance against the wearing of headscarves.
Similar decisions in previous seasons have stirred controversy and criticism from some Muslim groups in France, who argue it demonstrates a lack of respect for religious diversity.
According to the reports of Le Parisien, FFF’s decision is based on its article 1.1 and code of ethics and deontology to ban all acts that will intervene with their principles of neutrality and tantamount to an act of proselytizing or propaganda.
Muslim players have been asked to postpone fasting during the five days leading up to EURO 2024 qualifier games against the Netherlands and Ireland.
This stance contrasts sharply with the accommodations announced by the Premier League for its Muslim players.
