The French Football Federation’s Refereeing Department has upheld the red card issued to Samir El Mourabet during Strasbourg’s 4-0 loss to Olympique de Marseille on the opening weekend of Ligue 1. In its formal review published Tuesday, the body confirmed the expulsion was lawful under the sport’s regulations.
The 56th-Minute Incident and VAR Decision
El Mourabet, a Moroccan international midfielder, received his marching orders in the 56th minute after an altercation with Pierre-Emile Højbjerg. The on-field referee did not initially spot the contact, but video assistant referee intervention prompted a review of the footage, resulting in the dismissal.
The sequence unfolded after El Mourabet played a pass to a teammate before coming under pressure from the Marseille player. At that point, he made a gesture toward Højbjerg’s calf—a movement the officials deemed to cross the line from fair play.
Why the FFF Deemed the Expulsion Correct
The Refereeing Department’s analysis hinged on one critical finding: El Mourabet was no longer attempting to win the ball when the gesture occurred. Because he held no legitimate sporting purpose, the action fell under the classification of brutality rather than a standard foul.
The federation issued a reminder of its interpretation of the Laws of the Game: “giving or attempting to give a kick constitutes an act of brutality,” irrespective of whether full contact is made with the opponent. The department stressed that incomplete connection or a missed strike does not diminish the severity of the offense.
What Happens Next for Strasbourg’s Midfielder
The official ruling closes the post-match controversy that had drawn criticism from sections of the Strasbourg contingent. El Mourabet’s immediate future now rests with the disciplinary committee, which must determine the length of his suspension. The body typically reviews similar incidents to establish an appropriate ban length, though the exact duration remains pending their decision.
