PSG boss Christophe Galtier charged and set for court over alleged racism

01 July 2023 , 07:00

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Christophe Galtier denies making any discriminatory remarks while in charge of Nice.

Outgoing Paris Saint-Germain boss Christophe Galtier faces a court hearing on December 15 after being accused of behaving in a racist and discriminatory manner towards black and Muslim players while in charge of Ligue 1 side Nice in 2021.

Galtier and his son John Valovic-Galtier, who is an agent, were taken into custody at 8:45am on Friday morning and formally charged in the evening.

The chief prosecutor of Nice confirmed last night that the 56-year-old will be “tried on charges of moral harassment and discrimination on the basis of belonging or non-membership, true or supposed, to a specific ethnic group, nation, alleged race or religion".

A statement from the prosecutor added: "at the end of their hearings, [both men{ challenged the offences of which they could be accused.”

The head coach, who is set to leave PSG this summer once financial terms are agreed, allegedly remarked to director of football Julien Fournier that the squad contained too many black players, attempted to block Muslims from observing Ramadan and refused to sign a player based on his religion.

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The accusations first came to light in April when French outlet RMC Sport reported that it had received leaked emails from Fournier outlining a number of incidents in which Galtier alleged made racist or discriminatory remarks.

Galtier vehemently denies the allegations and in April a representative acting on his behalf released a statement that said he would not be taking counter legal action against Fournier.

"Christophe Galtier was amazed to learn of the insulting and defamatory remarks of Mr. Julien Fournier against him.

Given the seriousness of the charges against him, which he disputes with the greatest firmness, Christophe Galtier immediately seized his lawyer... to initiate, without delay, the necessary legal proceedings which are necessary."

(Matthieu Mirville / Avalon)

Fournier has already been interviewed by police to assist with their investigation.

Fans have reacted furiously to the allegations, leading to Galtier reportedly hiring private protection. Neither PSG nor Nice have commented on the accusations of discrimination.

Galtier spent one season in charge of Nice, which is owned by Britain’s second richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe, before moving to PSG.

But despite leading them to an 11th consecutive domestic title this season, their failure in the Champions League means he is expected to be replaced by former Spain boss Luis Enrique in the coming days. Galtier is already aware he is leaving the club, though an exit package is still to be agreed.

Alan Smith