Footballer Emmanuel Petit criticized France's riots, calling rioters 'petits cons' and urging them to leave, contrasting with politically correct football stars.
Footballer criticizes riots and those behind them
Emmanuel Petit, a former French footballer known for scoring in the 1998 World Cup final, criticized the recent riots in France, calling those responsible "petits cons" or "little jerks." His comments were reported by the French website Causeur.Petit recalls his footballing past
Petit, who played as a midfielder for teams led by coaches Aimé Jacquet and Roger Lemerre, shared his frustration on October 18, the day after the riots. He expressed a desire to confront those he called cowards, who he believed were present at the end of the Paris-Saint-Germain Champions League final.Petit condemns the violence and calls for change
He condemned the destruction, fires, looting, theft, and attacks that occurred during the riots. While expressing his love for France and those who want to integrate, Petit urged those who oppose the country's current direction to leave. He also addressed those born with French passports, saying France no longer wants them.Petit contrasts with current football figures
His comments contrast sharply with the politically correct stances of many in French football, such as Kylian Mbappé and Lilian Thuram. Petit had previously criticized Mbappé's activism, finding it inappropriate for someone with great wealth to focus on political or spiritual causes.Media reactions are mixed
The sports press has responded with a range of opinions. L'Équipe called Petit's remarks a "long unrestrained speech," while So Foot questioned whether his statements were accurately linked to the events he described.
