AhlulBayt News Agency: Muslim football players in France have been banned from fasting during the holy month of Ramadan while training with the national squad.

The French Football Federation (FFF) has introduced the ban, sparking accusations of discrimination and dividing the team.

FFF reportedly told players observing Ramadan they can’t fast at Clairefontaine training camp. They can only make up for missed fasting days after international fixtures end.

“Hijab bans for women, and now there is a ban on fasting for players observing Ramadan. France continues to be champions of anti-Muslim behavior,” said Canadian sports journalist Shireen Ahmed on X.

Most Les Bleus players come from Africa and North African backgrounds, like Ousmane Dembele, N’Golo Kante, Elias Guendouzi, Ibrahima Konaté, and Ferland Mendy. Last year, youth midfielder Mahamadou Diawara quit the under-19 squad in protest, ESPN reported.

“They believe their religion is not respected and that they are not respected either,” an agent said.

FFF president Philippe Diallo defended the decision, telling Le Figaro: “There is no stigmatization of anyone…But when we are in the French team, we must respect the framework.” He pointed to the federation’s rule enforcing “neutrality” and banning political or religious expressions during matches.