The Collectif Ultras Paris (CUP) was part of the criticism from France’s Minister of Sport and others over the lack of mask and social distancing during Paris Saint-Germain’s friendly match against Waasland-Beveren last Friday. Romain Mabille is the president of the CUP, and he spoke with Le Parisien about the situation.
Paul Goze, the president of the National Rugby League, called the Ultras irresponsible for not following health protocols during PSG’s 7-0 win over Waasland-Beveren. Mabille responded by saying that they let the situation get out of control, but by no means are they irresponsible.
“We let go of the enthusiasm of the match. We managed it very badly, I fully agree, but we are not irresponsible,” Mabille said. “We have been discussing for weeks how to get back to the stadium and be safe. There was no ill will on our part.”
Mabille also added that it would be difficult to monitor moving forward. Nonetheless, the CUP will likely be there Tuesday when Les Parisiens take on Celtic FC at the Parc des Princes. The president adds that they’ll display that they’re more than capable of following health protocols.
“I think we will come Tuesday. We will try to demonstrate that we are capable of having responsible behavior, even if the atmosphere suffers,” Mabille said. “PSG would like us to be there respecting all the instructions. It’s doable. We’re looking for the best formula. There is no will to disobedience.”
Finally, with the CUP not traveling for the two domestic cup finals at the end of the month or for the UEFA Champions League next month, they plan to send the squad off in style and with the players well, especially Thiago Silva.
“We have messages to send before the cups and the Champions League in Lisbon, said the leader of ultras,” Mabille said. “We want to talk again about Dortmund, which remains a great moment of the club, and to address the players who are going to leave, especially Thiago Silva, who deserves to be told goodbye correctly.”
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