The three-time French champion was penalized with a partial closure of the Parc des Princes due to homophobic chants sung by fans against Strasbourg in the ninth round of Ligue 1.
The penalty against PSG, which forces them to play with a partially closed stadium on November 22, comes as part of Ligue 1’s recent commitment to addressing and combating discriminatory behavior from fans.
The decision follows an incident in PSG's recent 4-2 home victory over Strasbourg, during which sections of the Parc des Princes crowd were heard engaging in homophobic chants directed toward the opposing team. The punishment reflects Ligue 1's increasing focus on enforcing standards around fan behavior and is intended as a message that such conduct will not be tolerated in French football.
However, in his recent press conference, PSG head coach Luis Enrique responded with a pointed critique of the League's approach, suggesting that PSG has been unfairly singled out. The coach was firm in his condemnation of any type of discrimination, emphasizing that both he and the club are committed to a zero-tolerance stance on homophobic or violent behavior. However, he also voiced frustration, indicating that PSG appears to be disproportionately targeted in these disciplinary actions, while other teams with similar issues seemingly evade sanctions. His remarks raise questions about consistency and fairness in how Ligue 1 handles disciplinary matters and the League’s responsibility in applying its standards equitably across all clubs.
Luis Enrique’s comments were measured but clear in their critique. "Our stand is closed every four weeks," he pointed out, highlighting the regularity with which PSG’s stadium faces partial closures. He suggested that similar incidents from other clubs seem to go unnoticed or unpunished, adding that verbal violence alone has a significant impact. By condemning both physical and verbal violence, Enrique underscored the negative effects such behaviors have on players, staff, and the larger fanbase, expressing a hope for an end to discriminatory behavior while also calling for fair treatment in League penalties.
The match against Toulouse will be played with this restriction in place, likely affecting the ambiance at the Parc des Princes and potentially impacting PSG’s home-field advantage. This game arrives amid a busy period for PSG, as they work to maintain their lead in Ligue 1 and simultaneously juggle Champions League commitments. PSG currently sits atop the Ligue 1 standings with 23 points, holding a three-point lead over Monaco, and will next face Lens, the fifth-placed team with 14 points. This match will be followed by a critical Champions League showdown against Atlético Madrid, with PSG hoping to extend their strong start in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
The partial stadium closure serves as a reminder of the challenges clubs face in managing fan behavior, particularly when competing on multiple fronts. For PSG, the situation also highlights the club’s unique pressures, with high-profile players and expectations bringing them under heightened scrutiny. PSG’s recent form in both domestic and international play reflects their ambition to capture titles on all fronts, and they remain the team to beat in Ligue 1 as they move into the critical winter period. Meanwhile, the club’s management and fans will likely be watching closely to see if Enrique’s comments prompt any reflection or changes in the League's approach to disciplinary measures.
