Lille – Inscriptions in the city appeared before the charity football tournament in support of Ukraine, which was planned to be held on June 4 and 5. In particular, unknown people drew a swastika, the Star of David and left the inscription “No Ukraine” and “long live Russia”.
They were affixed last night to the facades, equipment and truck of the International Solidarity association, created by Ukrainian refugees.
Members of the association organizing the event arrived at the Jean Barrett Stadium in Lille on the morning of June 4. They were shocked to see a “a dozen” pro-Nazi inscriptions on the walls, floor, stadium fence and association’s van.
“There were many swastikas. The president of the [association], a Ukrainian, burst into tears. She escaped the war, she didn’t think she would find it here, “said Filip Delpes, a member of the association.
The members of the association stated that they could not hold the event in such conditions, so they canceled it. This tournament was to help raise money for Ukraine. According to media reports, Ukrainian football player Ivan Yaremchuk was even specially invited to the event.
Lille Mayor Martin Aubrey condemned “vile antisemitic and pro-Russian inscriptions” at the stadium and announced that the mayor’s office would file a complaint over the incident.
