Nantes To Fine Mohamed's Decision not To Wear Rainbow Jersey

Nantes striker Mostafa Mohamed will receive a financial penalty from his club for his decision to abstain from playing in a match over the weekend as a protest against an anti-homophobia campaign in France's Ligue 1.

Although the exact amount of the fine was not disclosed, the source clarified that Mohamed would not face suspension from future games. The initiative in question involved the players in France's top two divisions wearing rainbow-coloured numbers on their shirts, while captains and officials sported rainbow armbands, as part of a concerted effort against homophobia in football.

The jerseys adorned with rainbows will be auctioned off, with the proceeds being donated to three LGBTQ discrimination-fighting charities.

However, the Egyptian international Mohamed declined to participate in Nantes' goalless draw against Toulouse, citing his wish to avoid any association with the campaign, despite the team's desperate need for points as they strive to escape the relegation zone.

In a Twitter post on Sunday night, the 25-year-old, who practices Islam, elucidated his decision not to play, stating, "I have the utmost respect for all differences, beliefs, and convictions. This respect extends to others, but my personal beliefs must also be respected.

"Considering my roots, culture, and the significance of my convictions and beliefs, it was not possible for me to partake in this campaign. I hope my decision will be respected."

Nantes' choice not to suspend Mohamed ensures that the club will retain the services of a player who has scored 11 goals this season, as they find themselves just one point away from safety with three games remaining in the season.

Several other players also declined to participate in the campaign and consequently missed their respective team's matches over the weekend, including Toulouse winger Zakaria Aboukhlal, a Moroccan international.

French government spokesperson Olivier Veran criticized the players' refusal to play in protest of the anti-homophobia campaign, describing it as "rubbish" and "anachronistic." Veran emphasized that we live in a world where everyone is entitled to love whomever they choose, during an interview with France 2 television station.