Maignan, Udine city council rejects honorary citizenship

Maignan, the Udine city council rejects honorary citizenship

The Udine City Council rejected the mayor's proposal, Alberto Felice De Toni, to award honorary citizenship to Mike Maignan after the racist chants against the goalkeeper during the Udinese – Milan match on January 20th. To be approved, the proposal – explains the Municipality of Udine in a note – needed the votes of three-quarters of the councillors. In all, 38 people voted, the majority with 25 votes in favour, the centre-right minority 13 against and three absent.

“I note with regret that the center-right was not at our side in this delicate moment. The opportunity was missed to demonstrate that our city is united and that it clearly distances itself from what happened, which, although frequent in different stages and implemented by a few individuals, does not represent the city in the slightest. Nor even our fans.” comments the mayor Alberto Felice De Toni.

“Our intent – explains the mayor – was twofold: a strong, highly symbolic position against any type of discrimination. And at the same time the defense of our city and our fans from unjust accusations. It was disappointing how the minority made it a topic of mere political conflict, almost parochial, fueling divisions and controversies. There are issues on which the antagonism between parties necessarily takes a back seat, the fight against racism is one of these.”

Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan left the pitch last January 20th during the match between Udinese and Milan after being subjected to racist chants. The match then resumed after 15 minutes.

Read also

Antonio Conte at Milan, Ibrahimovic, the bomb of Telelombardy, decisive