Controversy Surrounds French Women’s National Team’s Refusal to Wear Rainbow Armbands at Euro 2025
Political Backlash After Players Opt Out of Symbolic Gesture
Marine Tondelier, National Secretary of the French Green Party, expressed her disappointment on social media after the French women’s national football team chose not to wear rainbow armbands during Euro 2025—a widely recognized symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community. Reacting to France’s quarter-final defeat to Germany in a post on X, Tondelier stated, “Like everyone, I’m disappointed by the Bleues’ early exit. But I’m even more disheartened by their refusal to wear the rainbow armband in support of the LGBTQ+ community—a move embraced by the majority of teams in the tournament.”
Missed Chance to Promote Visibility and Inclusion
Tondelier stressed the symbolic power of such gestures, particularly in a tournament that features many LGBTQ+ players. “This was the perfect opportunity to demonstrate solidarity and take a stronger stand than the men did during the Qatar World Cup,” she said. Her criticism didn’t stop at the players—she also called out French sporting authorities for their lack of leadership in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports.
French Players Emphasize Inclusivity Through Broader Messaging
In response to the mounting criticism, team captain Griedge Mbock addressed reporters, explaining the team’s decision. “We are a multicultural, multifaith, and diverse group—this includes people of all sexual orientations. We believe that a single symbol can’t represent all the causes we care about,” she said. Instead of the rainbow armband, the French squad wore one emblazoned with the word “Respect,” which they felt delivered a more encompassing and inclusive message.
Coaching Staff Defends the Team’s Unified Stance
Assistant coach Laurent Bonadei echoed the players’ viewpoint, reinforcing that the team’s chosen message was inclusive by design. “The word ‘Respect’ covers many important causes, including anti-racism and LGBTQ+ rights. It’s a powerful, unifying symbol,” he said. Bonadei also mentioned that the players were not made fully aware of UEFA’s campaign specifically promoting the rainbow armband, which may have impacted their final decision.
Government’s Silence Sparks Debate Over Double Standards
The French government’s lack of an official response to the women’s team’s decision has drawn additional scrutiny. This silence contrasts sharply with a previous statement made by Sports Minister Marie Barsacq, who condemned a male Ligue 1 player’s refusal to wear the rainbow armband as “professional misconduct.” The differing reactions have fueled criticism over perceived inconsistencies in how the state addresses LGBTQ+ issues within professional athletics.
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