Paris prosecutors, in coordination with other relevant authorities, have initiated an investigation into reports of “aggravated incitement to racial hatred” and “incitement to discrimination” during the Israel-Paraguay soccer match held at the Parc des Princes.
According to Olympic organizers, a banner displaying a political message and anti-Semitic gestures were observed during the match. The specific nature of these gestures was not detailed in the statement released by the organizers.
The committee responsible for organizing the event, Paris 2024, issued a statement strongly condemning the acts and confirming that a formal complaint has been filed. The committee has expressed its willingness to cooperate with the authorities in the investigation process.
Paris 2024 emphasized its commitment to combating all forms of discrimination, emphasizing that such behaviors are contrary to the values of the Olympic and Paralympic movements. The committee reiterated that the Games are meant to promote harmony and tolerance among participants and spectators.
Reuters reported that still images captured during the match showed a banner with the message “Genocide Olympics” being displayed, accompanied by spectators holding Palestinian flags.
