The cleaver fell. After several weeks under the fire of criticism, Stéphanie FRAPPART was sanctioned by the authorities. The one who was elected one day “best referee in the world”, accustomed to the largest posters in Ligue 1 and international competitions, was officially demoted. For the next day, she will not officiate in the elite, but on the lower floor, in Ligue 2, for the Le Mans-Troyes match.
The blow for Stéphanie FRAPPART
This “descent” is obviously no coincidence. It sounds like the direct consequence of the controversy that followed the Rennes-Lyon match a few weeks ago. Referee Var that evening, she had not tried to report a very dangerous sole of Anthony Rouault, triggering a torrent of criticism.
“What was the Var doing?” “, had rebellious a Lyon leader, while Sidney Govou spoke of an analysis “Almost shameful”.
Even the technical direction of arbitration (DTA) had recognized the error, believing that the gesture should have asserted an expulsion. This outing of her own instance weakened like never before Stéphanie Flicpart, placing her in an untenable situation.
From the Champions League to Ligue 2: the fall is struck
A symbol in free fall
This demotion, even if it may be only temporary, is a strong message. She shows that no one, not even the best referee in the world, is untouchable. After years spent breaking the glass ceilings, Stéphanie FRAPPART saw a brutal stop. She, who had become a symbol of success and competence, is now disputed.
Will this sanction calm criticism? Not sure. But she has the merit of showing that the authorities heard the discontent. Now remains in Stéphanie FRAPPART to prove, on the Ligue 2 terrains, that she always has the level to arbitrate at the highest. The path of redemption begins this Friday, far from the spotlights of Ligue 1.
