Striker Fined for Declining to Wear Rainbow Jersey
Mostafa Mohamed, the striker for Nantes, will face a financial penalty from his club for his refusal to participate in a match over the weekend, as a form of protest against an anti-homophobia campaign in France's Ligue 1. A source within the struggling team informed AFP on Monday that while Mohamed will be fined, he will not face suspension. The specific amount of the fine has not been disclosed.
In support of the campaign against homophobia, the jerseys of all players in the top two divisions of French football, as well as the armbands worn by captains and officials, were adorned with rainbow colors. These shirts will be auctioned off, and the proceeds will be donated to three charities actively combating LGBTQ discrimination.
However, Mohamed, an Egyptian international and practicing Muslim, chose not to participate in his team's 0-0 draw against Toulouse. Despite Nantes' urgent need for points to escape the relegation zone, Mohamed wished to avoid associating himself with the campaign.
In a post on social media Sunday night, the 25-year-old striker explained his decision. "I hold respect for all differences, beliefs, and convictions," he stated on Twitter. "While I extend this respect to others, my personal beliefs must also be respected. Due to my roots, my culture, and the significance of my convictions and beliefs, it was not possible for me to take part in this campaign. I hope that my decision will be respected."
The decision not to suspend Mohamed ensures that Nantes will not deprive themselves of a valuable player who has scored 11 goals this season. The team is currently one point away from safety, with only three games remaining in the season.
Several other players also declined to participate in the campaign and subsequently missed their respective team's matches over the weekend. Among them was Zakaria Aboukhlal, a Moroccan international who plays as a winger for Toulouse.
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