In France, women’s soccer team captain Wendie Renard has announced her resignation from the French national team, arguing that the current system is far from meeting the demands of the highest level. Renard, who has worn the French jersey 142 times, expressed her passion, respect, commitment, and professionalism towards the team, but said she could no longer support the current system and that her retirement was necessary to preserve her mental health. Two more players, Marie Katoto and Kadidiatou Diani, have seconded Renard’s decision, indicating that they no longer agree with the management of the national team and the values it conveys.
The players’ criticism comes five months before the World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, which poses problems for the French team as it faces the difficult task of finding suitable replacements for the three players. The case is reminiscent of that of the Spanish women’s national team, which in 2019 faced a similar conflict when fifteen players filed a formal complaint against the Spanish Football Federation for unfair treatment and lack of support.
The situation in France highlights the need for a change in the management of women’s soccer and the way players are treated. It is important that their voices are heard and that steps are taken to improve the system and ensure fair and equitable treatment of all players, both in France and around the world.