French refs may withdraw over safety risk - union
Briefly

The French referees union has expressed serious concerns for the safety of its members after referee Jeremy Stinat received threats following controversial comments by Marseille president Pablo Longoria. Following a defeat, Longoria accused the officiating of "true corruption" and criticized a red card decision, leading to a significant backlash against Stinat. Amid fears for referees' safety, including vandalism directed at Stinat's family, the union has signaled it may withdraw officiating services if risks persist. Longoria received a 15-match ban for his inflammatory remarks, reflecting the severity of undermining referee credibility in the sport.
The nature of the remarks ... called into question the integrity of the referee and, more generally, that of the refereeing body.
In the event of a new breach of their private sphere, putting them or their families at risk, [the referees] would exercise their right to withdraw.
Following the appointment of referee Jeremy Stinat, the French referees union highlighted concerns over safety after threats were made against Stinat's family after controversial remarks.
Longoria's comments led to a 15-match ban, underscoring the serious repercussions for casting doubt on referee integrity in French football.
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