Matic & Hassan: Ligue 1 Ban for Badge Protest
Nemanja Matic and Ahmed Hassan face suspensions after Ligue 1 penalized the players for thier protest against anti-homophobia badges, a decision underscoring the league’s stance on inclusivity. These two-game suspensions, plus two additional suspended matches, stem from the footballers concealing the messages during Ligue 1’s awareness campaign.The league is also requiring the players to participate in an awareness programme within six months. News Directory 3 has been closely following the developments, which come amidst wider resistance to the campaign, rooted in personal and religious beliefs. What’s next in Ligue 1’s efforts to combat homophobia? Discover what’s next …
Ligue 1 Sanctions Matic, Hassan for Anti-homophobia Badge Protest
Updated June 06, 2025
Lyon’s Nemanja Matic and Le Havre’s Ahmed Hassan received two-game suspensions, plus two additional suspended matches, from Ligue 1 after concealing anti-homophobia badges on their jerseys. The league announced the disciplinary action, emphasizing its commitment to combating homophobia in football.
Matic, 36, covered the badge with tape during Lyon’s 2-0 victory against Angers on May 17. Hassan, 32, took similar action in Le Havre’s 3-2 win over strasbourg. These incidents occurred during Ligue 1’s annual campaign to promote inclusivity.
In addition to the suspensions, both Matic and Hassan will participate in an anti-homophobia awareness campaign within the next six months, according to ligue 1.
“In addition, the committee proposed to the player — who immediately accepted at the meeting — that he take part, within six months, in a campaign to raise awareness of the fight against homophobia in football…”
Ligue 1 statement
Ligue 1’s initiative to display rainbow-colored symbols and anti-homophobia messages has faced resistance, with some players citing personal or religious beliefs for their non-participation. The league continues to address homophobia in football through awareness campaigns and disciplinary measures.
What’s next
Ligue 1 plans to continue its anti-homophobia campaign next season, seeking broader participation and aiming to foster a more inclusive environment within French football. Further discussions with clubs and players are expected to refine the approach and address concerns.