In a major shift for the French Football Federation (FFF), the leadership faced upheaval as Noel Le Graët was dismissed following intense public pressure tied to controversial remarks in a radio interview. The decision marked a pivotal moment for the organization as it sought to address questions about its direction and leadership amid ongoing scrutiny.
The FFF stated that the move came as part of an agreement between Le Graët and the federation’s board of directors, which convened in an extraordinary session to discuss the matter and ensure continuity at a time of crisis. The federation emphasized that the aim was to secure stable governance during a period of intense public and political attention, while the broader context included calls for greater accountability within the federation’s leadership.
The announcement also referenced comments by Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, France’s Minister of Sports, noting that the federation would undertake a formal audit of Le Graët’s leadership. The audit, ordered at the minister’s request, seeks to examine the practices and conduct of the federation’s top executive and to document any areas needing reform.
Philippe Diallo, who had served as the deputy head of the FFF, stepped in to assume the role of interim president. His appointment reflected the federation’s intention to maintain leadership continuity while investigations and organizational reforms proceed.
Prior to the decision, Le Graët faced an official review by the General Education, Sports and Research Inspectorate, which conducted an inquiry into his tenure at the FFF. The inquiry was part of broader efforts to understand and address the concerns raised by employees and affiliates of the federation.
Allegations surrounding Le Graët included reports from several women tied to the federation who described experiences of inappropriate conduct. One reported incident, brought to light by a sports manager, raised serious questions about professional treatment and personal behavior within the federation’s workplace. The leadership faced growing criticism as more accounts emerged, pressing for more transparent governance and accountability.
The public discourse intensified after Le Graët’s remarks when he was questioned about the possibility of Zinedine Zidane taking charge of the national team. Following Didier Deschamps’s extension as manager through 2026, speculation mounted about Zidane potentially moving to another club or national team. Le Graët’s responses—characterized by a mix of humor and defiance—added fuel to the controversy, with many viewers interpreting his remarks as dismissive of the questions around Zidane and his future role in French football.
Asked whether he had spoken directly with Zidane, Le Graët’s reply suggested that he would not engage in such a conversation, prompting further debate about his willingness to support high-profile players and coaches. The comments underscored perceptions of leadership style and raised questions about the federation’s strategic direction as it navigated succession planning and responses to the broader calls for reform.