Minister orders investigation of French soccer federation

France’s sports minister has initiated an inquiry into the French Football Federation (FFF) following allegations of sexual harassment against its president, Noël Le Graët. Amélie Oudéa-Castéra held a meeting with Le Graët, after which she announced the investigation, termed as an “audit and control mission,” to be conducted by the state inspection body overseeing sports. This development occurred a day after the federation declared its intention to sue So Foot magazine for defamation. The magazine had reported that Le Graët allegedly harassed female employees, citing anonymous sources and inappropriate text messages. So Foot also highlighted a purported toxic culture within the federation.

In a statement, Oudéa-Castéra emphasized the necessity for the FFF to continue its operations with utmost respect for all employees, irrespective of their position in the hierarchy. The minister urged the federation to actively promote the prevention and combat of all forms of discrimination and violence, including sexism and sexual violence. Le Graët committed to providing the inspection mission with recent reports about the FFF, particularly those concerning his management, in complete transparency.

Le Graët, aged 80, has not publicly responded to the accusations. In an interview with L’Equipe newspaper, he dismissed rumors of retiring after the 2022 World Cup, asserting that he would continue if his health remained stable. He expressed confidence in his capabilities, stating, “I’m very good at my job and everyone likes me. I’m lucky to be appreciated.”

Amid preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics, accusations of harassment and bullying are not confined to the football federation. Last month, the sports minister suspended Claude Atcher, the chief executive of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to commence in September next year in Paris. An internal investigation, prompted by Oudéa-Castéra, revealed “alarming managerial practices” and the “suffering of some employees.” A final decision on Atcher’s position is pending, awaiting work inspection and disciplinary proceedings.