French Basketball Team Faces Racist Abuse During Euro 2025 Qualifier in Croatia
France secures a hard-fought victory in Zadar to qualify for Euro 2025, but the game is marred by racist insults targeting players, drawing condemnation from the French Basketball Federation.
- The French men's basketball team defeated Croatia 83-80 in Zadar on February 21, securing their qualification for Euro 2025 with a fifth consecutive win in the qualifiers.
- The victory was overshadowed by racist insults, including monkey chants, reportedly directed at French players, particularly Yoan Makoundou, by some Croatian fans.
- French player Théo Maledon confirmed hearing insults but stated he did not hear the monkey chants, as reported by French media outlets.
- The French Basketball Federation (FFBB) issued a statement condemning the racist abuse and announced plans to file a formal complaint with FIBA, the sport's governing body.
- The game took place in a high-pressure environment, with Croatia needing a win to keep their qualification hopes alive, ultimately failing to secure a spot in the tournament for the first time in their history.
Ouest-France 