the approval of a Sète football club withdrawn for community practice

Sète Olympique Football Club (Hérault) presented, on their jerseys, a logo with a religious sign. It was shown for several years. The prefect therefore decided to withdraw the association’s approval. An inspection was carried out in June 2023, and deficiencies were revealed. François-Xavier Lauch, prefect of Hérault, details: “On their return, the state services found prayer rugs (…) I don’t think that sports clubs in our country are there to do anything other than sport.”

A change of logo

In the streets of the city, some residents seem shocked. One of them said to himself “pretty” agree with the prefect. A few days after the inspection, the club changed its logo. It no longer shows any religious sign. For one of the club’s coaches, the prefect’s decision is incomprehensible. He refutes all communitarianism and all proselytism. According to the club’s lawyer, anyone can play there, regardless of religion or gender. The club challenged the prefect’s order in court. A hearing will take place on May 16.