Former Manchester United left-back Patrice Evra has been convicted for posting a homophobic message online a few years ago. Now two anti-hate campaign groups will recieve compensation from the retired French footballer.
The 41-year-old was charged on Thursday in relation to a video he shared on social media following Manchester United’s 3-1 win over Paris Saint-Germain.
According to The Mirror, Evra was not in court in Paris when he was fined €1,000 (£890) and ordered to pay €2,000 (£1,780) compensation to two anti-hate campaign groups.
In the video, Evra can be heard directing homophobic slurs towards PSG, using language we won’t repeat.
The complainants’ lawyer, Etienne Deshoulieres, released a statement saying: “The homophobic remarks of a personality like Patrice Evra fuel hatred and violence against LGBT people, in particular in countries where homosexuality is criminally repressed, like in Senegal, the country where Patrice Evra comes from.”
Jerome Boursican, who defended Evra in court, said his client had ‘not wanted to harm the homosexual community,’ insisting that his insults were just aimed at PSG.
The Manchester United LGBTQ+ Supporters Club issued a statement, which read: “RD is disappointed about the actions of Patrice Evra & welcomes the decision made by the French courts. Homophobic abuse is not okay. We acknowledge his apology & hope he has grown & learnt from this. We would welcome the opportunity to work with Patrice to help in that process.”
RD is disappointed about the actions of Patrice Evra & welcomes the decision made by the French courts. Homophobic abuse is not okay. We acknowledge his apology & hope he has grown & learnt from this. We would welcome the opportunity to work with Patrice to help in that process.
— Rainbow Devils (@RainbowDevils) February 9, 2023
It goes without saying that homophobia is a big issue in football, but all Premier League clubs will tell you they are doing their best to tackle it.
