Teddy Riner Urges Calm as Veil Ban in Sports Intensifies Debate

The Olympic champion reiterates his focus on inclusivity in sports while facing criticism from political and athletic figures over his opposition to the proposed ban.

Teddy Riner has called for calm and emphasized that his comments opposing the proposed veil ban in sports are not politically motivated but rooted in the values of respect and inclusion in sports.
The proposed law, which passed the Senate in February, seeks to ban all religious symbols, including the Islamic veil, in sports competitions at all levels and awaits review by the National Assembly.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau strongly criticized Riner's stance, describing the veil as a symbol of submission and inequality, aligning with the government's support for the ban.
Former boxing champion Mahyar Monshipour also opposed Riner, arguing that allowing the veil in sports undermines women's freedom and risks religious encroachment in public spaces.
The debate highlights broader divisions in France over secularism, with figures like YouTuber Tibo InShape supporting freedom of choice in sports attire to promote inclusivity.