France players suffer ‘racist’ chants in Russia

    Players for the France national team claim they suffered racist abuse from fans during their match against Russia in Saint Petersburg.

    It is alleged Manchester United's Paul Pogba and Barcelona's Ousmane Dembele were targeted with offensive chants from home fans during their team’s 3-1 victory at the Krestovsky Stadium, which will feature as a host in this summer’s World Cup.

    French Minister for Sport Laura Flessel said: "Racism has no place on the football pitch. We have to act in unison at a European and international level to put an end to these inadmissible actions."

    In response to claims that racism could mar the World Cup, Russian football's anti-discrimination chief Alexei Smertin has insisted that minorities will feel "safe and comfortable", and dismissed fears as "propaganda".

    More from Sport

    Listener Club

    Get more with the Listener Club!

    • The Golden Era The Golden Era

      The golden era of Bollywood celebrated in this weekly show full of classics taking you back in time. Every Sunday between 5pm - 7pm

    • Remix Saturdays Remix Saturdays

      Every Saturday evening we turn to remixes of hit songs to get you in the Saturday night party mood! Every Saturday between 5pm - 8pm

    • Alim OnAir Alim OnAir

      Have you a question about the religious, cultural or tradition aspect of Islam? Then join Hazrat Maulana Fazal Dad in the weekly show every Friday between 8-9pm.

    • Legal Show Legal Show

      Once a fortnight we dedicate a show to discussing legal issues and family / matrimonial law in particular. Alternate Friday mornings between 9am-11pm.