"Free Palestine" banners: "Paris Saint-Germain has a responsibility to set an example" (G. Avérous)

"Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1 McDonald's) has a responsibility to set an example and respect the rules imposed by the competitions in which it is involved," said Gil Avérous, French Minister for Sport, Youth and the Voluntary Sector, on X on 07/11/2024.

The Mayor of Châteauroux (Indre, FRA) spoke out after the Auteuil section of the Parc des Princes unfurled a "Free Palestine" banner covering the entire stand before kick-off for the Champions League match versus Club Atlético de Madrid (LALIGA EA Sports, 1-2). A banner whose introduction into the stadium, and therefore the message it contained, apparently escaped the notice of the Parisian club's management. Victoriano Melero, PSG's new CEO, has been summoned to the MSJVA this Friday to meet Gil Avérous and Othman Nasrou, Secretary of State for Citizenship and the Fight against Discrimination, to explain the situation.

"No to unacceptable practices in the stands of our stadiums. Sports grounds must not become political platforms. Respect for the rules and neutrality in stadiums is essential to preserve the spirit of sport: to bring…