After Le Graet’s statements towards Zinedine Zidane, the president of the French Soccer Affiliation was suspended | Soccer

French tv channel BFM introduced on Wednesday – citing unnamed sources – that the president of the French Soccer Affiliation, Noël Le Graët, has been suspended from his duties and has appointed his deputy, Diallo, to steer briefly the affairs of the federation.

She added that the choice got here after an pressing assembly of the French Federation's Government Committee.

Le Graet, 81, has been closely criticized for allegations of sexual harassment, which the French official has denied, in addition to his statements towards Zinedine Zidane – the French soccer icon – which upset gamers and politicians.

Yesterday Tuesday, the boss of the French Federation's ethics fee, Patrick Anton, known as on Le Graet to resign from his put up, regardless of his latest apology to French legend Zidane.

Zidane was one of many highest-profile candidates to take over the France staff ought to Didier Deschamps stop, however Deschamps' contract was prolonged after main the nationwide facet to the World Cup last earlier than taking on. dropping to Argentina final December.

In response to a query whether or not Zidane – who received the World Cup with France in 1998 – will now coach the Brazilian nationwide staff as a substitute of the French nationwide staff, Le Graet mentioned: “I do not care. he can go the place he desires.”

Anton instructed French sports activities newspaper L'Equipe: “Le Graet has made statements that present he has misplaced a few of his grace. He seems drained and desires a relaxation.”

He added: “We want a robust and calm management, however sadly that is not the case. All through the season, we should apply the foundations of ethics to the leaders, particularly the heads of areas. and competitions and refer circumstances to the suitable Disciplinary Committees, in the event that they cross the road.

And Anton continues: “As regards the president of the federation, it's clear that we don't intend to grab a disciplinary committee, however we will solely ask him to resign, within the curiosity of the soccer.”

Earlier, France striker Kylian Mbappe expressed his displeasure with Le Graet's statements, as he tweeted: “Zidane is France. We do not underestimate the respect of the legend on this method. “

French Sports activities Minister Amélie Audia-Castierra was amongst a number of politicians to reply to Le Graet's feedback, saying “the president of the nation's largest sports activities federation has crossed the road”.