French soccer president Noel Le Graet resigns amid sexual harassment investigation
French soccer coach Noel Le Grat on Tuesday resigned as president of the French Soccer Federation (FFF) amid a authorized investigation into alleged harassment and a judicial overview commissioned by the Sports activities Ministry.
The 81-year-old was suspended from the presidency of the French Soccer Federation (FFF) in January after launching an investigation into allegations of sexual and ethical harassment.
His resignation comes 13 days after the publication of an incriminating report on administration practices on the Paris-based FFF, which was commissioned by the French Ministry of Sports activities.
A report by France’s Normal Inspectorate for Training, Sports activities and Analysis mentioned Le Graet shouldn’t return as a result of his “behavioral excesses intrude with the train of his features”.
Le Graët, the previous president of Breton membership En Avant Guingamp, has been in command of FFF since 2011.
His time in cost coincided with the revival of the French nationwide soccer crew as a powerhouse, with its victory within the 2018 World Cup, adopted by its attain final yr’s remaining in Qatar, which it misplaced on penalties to Argentina.
However his iron grip on the place loosened in early January amid anger over dismissive statements he made about Zinedine Zidane’s potential curiosity in teaching the nationwide crew.
Zidane c’est la France, on Manque pas de respect à la légende as me ça… 🤦🏽♂️
– Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) January 8, 2023 His remarks sparked a backlash from politicians and sports activities figures together with celebrity French striker Kylian Mbappe, who criticized Le Graet for his “disrespect for the legend” Zidane.
Days later, it was confirmed that the embattled soccer boss was beneath investigation for sexual and psychological harassment following allegations made by the soccer agent, Sonia Sued.
Because the strain mounted, Sports activities Minister Amelie Odea-Castera joined requires Le Graet’s ouster, saying the longtime FFF president “not had the legitimacy to run and symbolize French soccer”.
(France 24 with Agence France-Presse)
