Moroccan embassy files complaint after flag allegedly burned in Aubervilliers | OneFootball

The Moroccan embassy in France said in a statement that it had filed a complaint after a Moroccan flag was torn down and set alight in Aubervilliers on Saturday, allegedly by people chanting slogans indicating Algerian origin.

The incident is said to have taken place in the Quatre-Chemins district of Aubervilliers, in Seine-Saint-Denis, following Morocco’s 3-0 win over Canada in the World Cup last 16.

The statement condemned the scenes in the strongest terms and cited documented and authenticated material showing the Moroccan flag being removed, set on fire and torn in public by individuals chanting slogans indicating their Algerian origin.

It described the act as an unacceptable outrage and a serious affront to a symbol of national sovereignty and unity, with the potential to deeply wound Moroccans living in France, Franco-Moroccans and those attached to respect, dignity and coexistence. Nothing, it added, could justify an act intended to provoke, stoke hatred and disturb public order.

The statement noted that a complaint had been lodged and thanked the French authorities, police and Aubervilliers town hall for their response.

Beyond a long-standing sporting rivalry, Morocco and Algeria have been politically at odds for more than 50 years over Western Sahara. Morocco controls about 80% of the territory, while the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic controls about 20%, the latter supported by Algeria.

Source: L'Équipe