Monaco midfielder Mohamed Camara has been handed a four-game ban after refusing to display an anti-homophobia logo on his kit.
Camara did not join a team photo in which the rest of the Monaco squad posed in front of the logo for the campaign marking World Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, which was held during matches on May 19.
The Mali international covered an anti-homophobia message on his shirt with white tape while playing in Monaco’s 4-0 victory over Nantes on the final day of the French football season.
Camara scored a penalty in the game and was then charged by the Ligue de Football Professionnel [LFP] for disciplinary action.
In a statement, the LFP wrote: “After hearing the player Mohamed Camara, and noting his refusal during the meeting to carry out one or more actions to raise awareness of the fight against homophobia, the Commission decided to impose a four-match suspension.”
Monaco chief executive Thiago Scuro said on Thursday that the club remain supportive of the anti-homophobia campaign and condemned Camara’s actions. His four-match ban will begin next season with Monaco’s Ligue 1 opener.
France’s sports minister, Amelie Oudea-Castera, hoped the 24-year-old would be hit with “the strongest sanctions”.
The Malian Football Federation responded by issuing a statement in support of the player.
“It is important to remember that players are citizens like any others, whose fundamental rights must be protected in all circumstances”, it said.
Homosexuality is not criminalised in Mali, but gay marriage is not recognised in the country.
