On Friday, Christophe Galtier, the coach of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), stated that he was deeply shocked by accusations of making racist remarks about players when he was coaching Ligue 1 club Nice last season. Various French media outlets reported these allegations, which surfaced in an email allegedly sent by the former Nice sporting director Julien Fournier. Galtier, however, has denied making any racist or Islamophobic remarks.
The 56-year-old coach expressed his dismay at a press conference and called out the irresponsible relay of these allegations that hurt him deeply. He was brought up in a multicultural environment and values shared by people regardless of their origins, color, or religion. He added that he could not accept his name being tarnished and would take legal action against anyone who attempts to damage his reputation.
The public prosecutor in Nice announced that a preliminary investigation has been opened into possible racial or religious discrimination. Police searches were conducted at the club’s offices, and Galtier received threats, prompting PSG to place him under protection.
PSG issued a statement in support of Galtier, condemning the unacceptable threats he has received and hoping that the matter will be dealt with by the courts. Galtier won the Ligue 1 title with Lille in 2021 and spent a year at Nice before moving to Paris at the end of last season.
Collectif Ultras Paris, PSG’s leading supporters’ group, stated that it would be unacceptable for Galtier to remain in charge if the allegations were proven true. Moreover, Galtier has already been under increasing pressure due to PSG’s poor performance since they were knocked out of the Champions League in the last 16 by Bayern Munich last month. Currently, PSG is six points clear at the top of Ligue 1 and will host second-placed Lens on Saturday.
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