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Greg Clarke has asked to step down as president of the English Football Association (FA) following controversial statements relating to gay men and black footballers. The statements that sparked the controversy were made during a video conference with the British Parliament, where it was discussed that there are few openly gay players in the football elite.
“I don’t know why, but I see professional players and black footballers being abused on social media. Black women and players face terrible abuse from racist and misogynistic people. Who is voluntarily subject to these abuses? Greg Clarke said, suggesting later in the speech that homosexuality was a lifestyle choice.
Clarke, 63 and president of the FA since September 2016, further said the goal of South Asian people is more interested in working for the organization than developing a football or coaching career in the UK.
Statements that have received harsh criticism from various associations, most notably from Kick It Out. “I was particularly concerned about the lazy racist stereotype about South Asians and their professional preferences. These are the stereotypes used in club gyms. And being gay is not a life choice as he says, “said Sanjay Bhandari, president of the anti-racist movement, also criticizing Greg Clarke for the comments relating to female players:” These are statements that leave anyone amazed, especially by the top manager of our football. It is totally unacceptable. “
Two public apologies from Greg Clarke followed, with no effect, until his resignation. “My words in front of Parliament were unacceptable and a disservice to football and to those who watch, play, referee and administer our sport. (…) I am deeply saddened by the fact that I have offended these different communities that exist in football for which I and many others have worked so hard to be included “, reads the statement announcing ‘farewell’ to the FA presidency.
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