Sabah FC coach Jean-Paul de Marigny rejects racism allegations from PDRM’s Fadi Awad, calling the claim baseless and unfair.
SABAH FC head coach Jean-Paul de Marigny has denied allegations of racism made against him by PDRM FC player Fadi Awad.
The claim followed a Super League match on Saturday, which Sabah won 4-1 at Selayang Municipal Stadium.
Jean-Paul described the match as “highly physical” and said he approached Fadi in the first half to ask him to stop striking Sabah players.
“The exchange lasted no more than 30 to 45 seconds,” he said in a statement.
“I repeated my request in a firmer tone, but at no point did I insult him.”
The coach stated he is willing to apologise if Fadi felt disrespected.
He maintained, however, that he would not apologise for standing up for his squad.
“To suggest racism based on such a brief interaction is unfair and deeply offensive,” he stressed.
Jean-Paul highlighted his 45-year career in football working with players from diverse cultures worldwide.
He also pointed to his multicultural upbringing in Australia and his family’s connection to multiple ethnicities.
“Racism is something we take very seriously in Australia, and it is never tolerated,” he said.
The coach concluded by wishing Fadi Awad well in his career.
He expressed hope that the player finds “his better self, happiness and peace”.
