French Team Montpellier Deny Racism Allegations Labeled as ‘Highly Severe’
The French club has firmly rejected claims made by the Australian player that she was subjected to racist treatment during her tenure at the club, including refuting that she was ever given bananas and reiterating its commitment to combating prejudice.
Details of the Reported Event
In her memoir Bloom, Fowler claimed that in the year 2022, while teammates departing from the team were given flowers, she and another black teammate were given nothing. Afterward, they were reportedly given bananas by a teammate in the dressing room.
“It was widely understood” that she and her teammate were departing, Fowler explained. “Everyone knew we were dissatisfied; re-signing would have been a shock,” Fowler wrote.
Montpellier’s Statement
Montpellier released a official response stating shock at the accusations, some of which were labeled as “extremely grave”. The club asserted that “the resulting oversimplification, which portrays the club as a racist entity, is unacceptable”.
Providing its version of events, the club described the matter as “clear”. It explained that on the first of June, 2022, the women’s team played their final home game against the opposing team. Following the match, as had been the tradition for several seasons, two players whose contracts had expired and who had worn the club’s colours for the last time were honoured with flowers.
“Fowler and her colleague were still contracted until mid-2023, so giving them a goodbye present would have been insensitive,” the club explained.
Inquiry into the Dressing Room Allegation
Montpellier also investigated the reported incident in the dressing room. After consulting with individuals who were present that time, they reported that no evidence was discovered to support the allegations.
“If these events had been reported and confirmed, the club would have acted swiftly,” the club affirmed.
Dedication to Combating Racism
“Racism is a grave matter that must not be misused. Montpellier reaffirms its dedication to opposing all types of prejudice,” the club concluded.
