Former Saint-Étienne president Roland Romeyer has been brought to court over a sexual harassment scandal that allegedly continued unpunished for 18 years whilst he held power at the historically prominent French football club.
Saint-Étienne, once amongst the elite teams of French football, currently competes in Ligue 2, with the club’s relegation attributed significantly to poor leadership and administrative decisions in recent years.
Roland Romeyer denies charges spanning 2006 to 2024 period
According to L’Équipe, Romeyer faces charges from local prosecutors for sexist comments, sexual harassment, and inappropriate behaviour. The investigation focuses on sexist remarks and improper conduct allegedly committed by the powerful figure between 2006 and 2024.
Romeyer, now 80 years old, categorically denied the charges through his lawyer, Jean-Félix Luciani.
“He denies having committed any crime and denies any sexual harassment,” the lawyer stated, adding that his client is “hurt, but calm and will defend himself with the necessary steadiness when the time comes”.
Investigation reveals pattern of inappropriate behaviour towards staff
However, documents examined by sources reveal a pattern of inappropriate behaviour and sexually charged gestures towards club employees that lasted nearly two decades.
“Romeyer is accused of attempting to touch buttocks in corridors, making unwanted embraces, and kissing the corner of the mouth, a gesture some employees tried to avoid. Other women reported that he pulled their necklines with his finger. Testimonies also include repeated comments about employees’ physical appearance, their clothing, and their breast size,” according to the report.
Martin Pradel, the prosecutor responsible for the internal investigation, stated that “most victims chose to minimise or downplay the situation, often to protect their careers or because they were interns or new to their positions”.
Saint-Étienne has taken a position on the matter, stating opposition to “all forms of violence and inappropriate behaviour, both on and off the pitch”.
The club has also forwarded information to the prosecutor’s office and expressed willingness to cooperate to see the case resolved.
(information from athletiko.gr)
