Strasbourg’s leading ultra group have came out fighting against their Chelsea ownership.
The French side won their Ligue 1 opener 1-0 against Metz, but next time out at home the match will be silent for the opening 15 minutes.
That’s been confirmed by the ‘Ultra Boys 90’ who lead the team’s fanbase.
Strasbourg spent a club record €102million in the summer, with thanks to their BlueCo ownership, yet the ultras released the following statement.
“The issues we have raised since BlueCo took over have not faded away during the off-season. On the contrary.
“The transfer window carried out so far demonstrates to the extreme that Racing is no longer a club that makes decisions in its own interest.
“Instead, we are witnessing a headlong rush where Chelsea is steering the ship at the expense of our club’s independence.
“The promise made by Behdad Eghbali to meet with us formally before the end of June has obviously not been kept. We note with regret the contempt the Strasbourg fans feel from the club’s management.
“The problem of multi-ownership is profound; it is a destructive logic that transforms historic clubs with strong identities into mere subsidiaries. Unfortunately, this system is becoming widespread. Our lawmakers must quickly take up this issue in order to put an end to the abuses it generates.
“We have always defended a rooted, popular football, driven by lively stands and a unique history. Today, however, we are being forced into a model where clubs are run like fast-food franchises.
“Our deep conviction, of course, is to encourage our players but also to fight when the institution is threatened. This dual commitment, which may seem paradoxical to some, is in fact the foundation of our commitment.
“We have always fought for what we believe is just and best for the club and for the condition of supporters in France and Europe. We will not give that up.
“The good sporting results must not blind us or make us forget the fight we are leading beyond the pitch and the short-term visions of what Racing offers on the field.
“What is happening within our club is too serious for us to remain silent as football continues to die out. We will continue to denounce the excesses of multi-ownership and the interference in our club.
“As a result, the quarter-hour of silence at the beginning of matches is now maintained until further notice.
“We remind once again that everyone is free to join or not in our fight. Everyone is free to follow or not our 15 minutes of silence.
“This is an important issue, it divides the fans, we are aware of it. Opinions may differ, but we must respect each other in our various positions.
“At the stadium, as in different social networks, everyone obviously has the right to have an opinion and to express it without fear. But respect for everyone must never be lost.
“Insults and provocations have no place between Racing supporters. We ensure that everyone is respected and able to express themselves: we expect the same respect from those who do not support us in our actions.
“We also remain available at our table for those who want to exchange. Many documents necessary to understand the issues of multi-ownership are available on our website.”
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