France’s football association meets for a crisis summit. It is about the future of association boss Noël Le Graët because of allegations of sexual harassment. National coach Corinne Diacre, who has been criticized after several resignations from the team, is also being negotiated.
Both personal details should be on the agenda at the board meeting of the French Football Association (FFF) announced for Tuesday (February 28th, 2023). The president of Olympique Lyon, Jean-Michel Aulas, is expecting a historic meeting, as he told the French newspaper “L’Equipe” said in an interview.
For one thing, the future of French Football Federation president Noël Le Graët is likely to be discussed. The Paris judiciary is investigating Le Graët for allegations of sexual harassment. The 81-year-old had temporarily vacated his post. “Noël wants to put the interests of the FFF ahead of his own“, Aulas said now in view of Tuesday’s meeting. It was in Le Graët’s interest to step back to ensure his defence.
Resignations in the French women’s team
The future of France women’s national team coach Corinne Diacre is also said to be on the agenda at the meeting. Several players, including long-time world-class defender Wendie Renard, had announced their retirement from the national team in the past few days, even though the World Cup begins in just under five months.
Renard and the PSG players Kadidiatou Diani (27) and Marie Antoinette Katoto had accused the association of a lack of professionalism and criticized the management style. In their statements on social media, the national players demanded “necessary changes” in the management of the team.
They did not mention the name of national coach Diacre – although Diacre has long been criticized for her leadership style and lack of success in tournaments. Her relationship with defense chief Renard is also considered to be strained. “The association cannot wait for the message of the best French players, who are among the best in the world“Aulas said.