Tensions between the French government and supporter groups have escalated following a controversial meeting on April 17, 2025, addressing issues of abusive searches and violence against female supporters in stadiums. The meeting, chaired by Sports Minister Marie Barsacq, was intended to foster dialogue and address concerns raised by the Association Nationale des Supporters (ANS). However, the outcome has sparked outrage among supporters, particularly regarding remarks made by Barsacq that were perceived as dismissive of the serious nature of the issues discussed.
During the two-hour session of the Instance Nationale du Supportérisme (INS) at the Ministry of Sports, various topics were covered, including sexist and sexual violence in sports venues and the invasive searches that female supporters have faced at stadium entrances. Reports have surfaced of supporters, particularly from the RC Lens, alleging that they have experienced overly intrusive searches, with some even describing them as sexual assault.
Kilian Valentin, spokesperson for the ANS, expressed shock at Barsacq's initial response to testimonies of sexual violence, stating that her comments were clumsy and linked the issue to pyrotechnics in stadiums. "There was a moment during this meeting that was very complicated and touched several people regarding the subject of sexist and sexual violence," Valentin told RMC Sport. He highlighted that two representatives of the ANS left the meeting in protest.
The controversy intensified when Barsacq reportedly suggested that searches would be less aggressive if female supporters did not hide flares in their intimate areas. This comment was met with immediate backlash from the ANS, which described it as scandalous and indicative of a lack of understanding of the gravity of the situation. The ANS stated in a press release, "We are shocked; the political reaction to the liberation of women's voices clearly stops at the entrance to stadiums."
In response to the growing tensions, Barsacq emphasized her commitment to addressing these issues and stated that abusive searches must cease. She mentioned that her ministry is working on "good practices" with the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) and has shared a "terrain d’égalité" label used for the Paris 2024 Olympics, which could serve as a reference for other sports championships.
Despite her assurances, the ANS remains dissatisfied with the government's handling of the situation. They have threatened to take the state to court for its perceived inaction and lack of consideration for the experiences of female supporters. "We are considering holding the state liable before the administrative judge," the ANS warned, underlining that none of the reported sexual assaults have led to the discovery of any pyrotechnic devices on the women involved.
The ANS has also criticized the absence of representatives from the Ministry of the Interior during the meeting, calling it a significant oversight. Barsacq's office later clarified that she was particularly sensitive to the testimonies of women who have suffered from abusive searches at sporting events and reiterated that such acts must be condemned and sanctioned firmly.
Furthermore, Barsacq expressed her regret that the ANS attributed words to her that she never said, emphasizing that nothing justifies abusive searches or sexual violence in stadiums. She has called for a collective mobilization to ensure that these acts cease, and announced the formation of a working group to address the issue of sexual violence in French stadiums.
Looking ahead, Barsacq has committed to reconvening the INS in July 2025 to examine the concrete proposals developed by this working group aimed at improving the conditions for women accessing stadiums. She stressed the importance of dialogue and collective action to address the concerns of all supporters, particularly women.
The situation remains tense as the ANS continues to push for meaningful changes and accountability from the government. The discourse surrounding the treatment of female supporters and the broader issue of sexism in sports is expected to be a focal point in upcoming discussions within the sports community in France.
As the dialogue unfolds, it is clear that the relationship between the government and supporter groups is at a critical juncture. The need for a constructive and respectful exchange is paramount to ensure that all fans feel safe and welcomed in stadiums across the country.
