The Radio France investigation unit publishes Thursday new testimonies of women on the attitude of Noël Le Graët, the president of the French Football Federation. Some refer to behavior ” inappropriate “others talk about ” harassment “still on condition of anonymity.
“He told me he wanted to take me home, says a former employee. He didn’t text me. At that time, he was not a telephone pro. But these were repeated invitations to come and dine with him. » According to her, Le Graët assured her: “If something happens between us, don’t worry, nobody will know. »
“I strongly contest the alleged inappropriate behavior”
Noël Le Graët, President of the FFF
Another ex-employee remembers an official trip with the president of the FFF in 2016. “He tells me that I have to put on a skirt on the day of the trip, remembers the one who is presented by Radio France as having occupied a high position in the Federation. Obviously I refuse, I put on pants. On the plane, I’m next to him, he puts his hand on my thigh. I pushed him away saying: “President, we are not going to start the journey like that”. »
Through his communications director, Le Graët reacted to his accusations on the radio. “I strongly contest the alleged inappropriate behavior towards employees within the FFF. I have always maintained respectful relationships with my colleagues in an atmosphere of mutual trust. These false and malicious anonymous allegations are clearly intended to harm me professionally and personally. »
The role of Florence Hardouin questioned
Another witness quoted by Radio France evokes a “really borderline behavior”without having “never felt his words as threatening”. She also says that she has kept good relations with the president of the FFF. On the other hand, like the other people mentioned, she wonders about the governance of Florence Hardouin, the general manager of the Federation. “Either we are with her or we are against her”she says.
Florence Hardouin (right), next to Noël Le Graët (F. Faugère/L’Équipe)
A former executive interviewed also accuses the leader of having implemented a PSE (employment safeguard plan) in 2021 on the pretext of economic difficulties. “to get rid of everyone she no longer wanted, including many women”.
Like Le Graët, Florence Hardouin responded in writing. “I categorically deny the false allegations that are reported to you against me. In general, I will not answer any questions from journalists since, as you know, an audit requested by the Ministry of Sports is in progress. » The latter must indeed start on Thursday, as revealed by the L’Équipe site.