By Clémence T
– Published on June 25, 2024 at 2:45 p.m.
While the subject of homosexuality in football remains very taboo today, Olivier Giroud has a clear opinion.
Euro 2024 is in full swing in Germany and the group stage is soon coming to an end. We can also say that France is doing quite well! While Didier Deschamps’ Blues won their match against Austria (1-0) and drew against the Netherlands, the France-Poland meeting is also highly anticipated. Nevertheless, and it’s a nice surprise, Olivier Giroud and his teammates are qualified for the round of 16 even before having to play this evening’s match, broadcast from 6 p.m. on TF1.
Olivier Giroud cashes in on homophobic banners in stadiums
And if the matches are so pleasant to watch, it is also and above all thanks to the unrivaled atmosphere that reigns in the stadiums. Despite everything, some supporters have no place there, especially those who start chanting and brandish homophobic banners. Which is unfortunately not that rare. Asked about this in 2019 on the show Sept à Huit, Olivier Giroud shared his feelings.
“Songs have always been part of football folklore, particularly during matches between enemy clubs like Paris and Marseille. But I think that at no time is it a reference to a certain form of homophobia”, first declared the AC Milan striker and number 9 of the Blues. Then add: “NOW, It’s unacceptable to see banners like that.”.
Olivier Giroud: “I don’t think I would say it”
During his interview with TF1, the man who recently took a position on the legislative elections was not afraid to admit that homosexuality is “a taboo subject in the locker room”, whether in the world of football or rugby. Olivier Giroud made a sad observation in particular. “It’s a male environment, so it’s very easy to judge quickly and ostracize someone who may be homosexualUnfortunately”. And to confide: “If I was myself, I don’t think I would say it, it’s too hard”.
Antoine Griezmann in turn discusses homosexuality in football
Olivier Giroud is not the only one to have spoken out about the taboo of homosexuality in the world of football. Antoine Griezmann also spoke to ICON magazine in 2017. “I think it’s not usual because we act tough and strong”initially declared the Blues striker. “And we are afraid of what might be said. I have nothing against it, I respect everyone. There are a lot of bad people in football.”. According to him, homosexual people could “being afraid of going to the stadiums and being insulted”. “I think I would (reveal his homosexuality, editor’s note)but of course it’s easy to say that when you’re not.”he concludes.
