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Rabat – The French Football Federation (FFF) has once again opposed the implementation of breaks during matches for Muslim players to break their fast during Ramadan.
According to converging media reports, the FFF’s Federal Referees Commission (CFA) sent an email to officials last year indicating that it was prohibited to interrupt matches to allow Muslim players to break their fast by hydrating and eating.
The Federation maintains its decision to disallow breaks for Muslim players despite widespread backlash accusing the federation of Islamophobia.
According to a report from French media RMC Sport, Eric Borghini, president of the CFA, said that the commission will not renew its recommendations to avoid any “form of provocation.”
However, the commission plans to step in should the referees not adhere to the rule. “If we receive feedback that it’s happening again (match interruptions), we will consider issuing a reminder. In professional matches, I doubt it will happen,” he told French media.
Countries like England and Germany allow for match breaks during Ramadan to give Muslim players a chance to break their fast before resuming the match. However, France continues to staunchly oppose the measure.
The Federation bases its decision maintaining that it constitutes a display of religious affiliation, which is prohibited under its law.
Last year, Eric Borghini denounced what he called a “sterile controversy” regarding the email sent to officials, reminding them that “players have ample opportunity to hydrate during substitutions or treatments received by teammates.”
Football fans, especially Muslims, have continuously expressed their dissatisfaction with CFA’s “recommendations,” describing them as unreasonable and unacceptable.
During Ramadan, adult, able-bodied Muslims are required to abstain from food and drinks from dusk till dawn.
Muslim children, the elderly, and the sick are also exempt from fasting during the holy month, as well as those who are traveling long distances.
Read Also: French Authorities Step Up Security Around Mosques During Ramadan
