Nantes Fine Striker Mohamed for Skipping Anti-Homophobia Match

French Ligue 1 club Nantes has decided to fine their Egyptian striker Mostafa Mohamed after he refused to play in a crucial match against Montpellier that coincided with the league's International Day Against Homophobia. Mohamed has previously declined to participate in matches associated with LGBTQ campaigns, including a 2023 game where teams wore rainbow-colored numbers; his entourage cited threats against him for playing. Nantes plans to donate the fine to a charity that fights LGBTQ discrimination. The club is in a relegation battle, making the match against Montpellier essential to secure their league status. Nantes coach Antoine Kombouare had initially attributed Mohamed's absence to a minor muscle injury, but the refusal to participate is linked to Mohamed's personal beliefs, which he expressed as a matter of respecting his cultural and religious convictions. The situation recalls a similar case last year when Mali midfielder Mohamed Camara was banned for four matches after opposing LGBTQ support initiatives, highlighting ongoing tensions around LGBTQ campaigns in French football.