© Fernand Schmitz
More than 70 protesters raised red cards at Luxembourg's match against Ireland on Tuesday to denounce the national team's continued selection of Gerson Rodrigues after his domestic violence conviction, as his former partner Emilie Boland spoke publicly in support of the demonstration.
More than 70 demonstrators gathered at Stade de Luxembourg on Tuesday evening to protest the continued inclusion of Gerson Rodrigues in the football national team despite his conviction for domestic violence.
In the 18th minute of the international friendly against Ireland, protestors – joined by many Irish supporters – raised symbolic red cards to denounce the Luxembourg Football Federation's (FLF) decision. Chants such as "Football is political", "Shame on you, FLF", and "Those who hit women don't play for us" were heard throughout the match, with Rodrigues booed each time he touched the ball.
Referencing the fact that someone was injured during a previous protest, activists said they were once again taking a stand to show they would not be silenced. The timing of the protest was likely in reference to Rodrigues' suspended 18-month prison sentence.
Protesters, including the women's rights organisation CID Fraen an Gender, criticised the FLF for its lack of response. "He continues to portray himself as the victim – that's classic perpetrator behaviour", said CID's Cléo Thoma.
They also stated that, as part of the International Women's Day (JIF) platform, they had published an open letter addressed to the FLF, summarising the situation, outlining their position, and offering a list of recommendations. Comparing their proposals with the content of the federation’s press release, they argued there was still considerable room for improvement.
In particular, they were dissatisfied with how the incident was framed – while the FLF had issued "sincere apologies", the facts themselves remained undisputed, and they pointed to what they saw as very poor communication. Furthermore, they expressed frustration at Gerson Rodrigues' recent social media statement, which they said showed no sign of self-reflection or accountability.
Irish fans held up red cards during Tuesday’s match in Luxembourg to support domestic abuse victims and protest Gerson Rodrigues' continued inclusion in the national team. / © Ask for Angela Organisation
Rodrigues' former partner speaks out
Rodrigues' former partner and abuse victim, Emilie Boland, spoke to RTL at the protest, expressing gratitude for the support she received over the past two years.
"The support I’ve received has made me stronger," Boland said, adding that encouragement from both men and women helped her find the strength to face the situation publicly. "That's why I’m standing here today."
Boland also addressed her decision to share a photo of her injuries, explaining it was not only a personal step but also a way to speak up for others. "I have a platform, and I wanted to use it to show women who feel voiceless that they are not alone. If I can get through this, they can too."
Responding to allegations that she is seeking publicity, Boland firmly rejected the claim."Look at my face – this is absolutely not for marketing. No woman wants her photo like this in the media. I shared it to show bravery, and to remind others that they can get out of these situations."
Emilie Boland, Rodrigues' former partner and domestic abuse victim, speaking to RTL.
FLF acknowledges mistakes
Ahead of the friendly match against Ireland, FLF president Paul Philipp acknowledged in an interview that a mistake had been made. The entire controversy surrounding Rodrigues and the exclusion of a Quotidien journalist had, according to him, escalated far beyond what they had anticipated.
Philipp emphasised that one has to take responsibility for their actions, something the federation had no issue with. Looking ahead, he said the focus must now be on doing better, which is why the decision was taken to establish an independent ethics commission.
Read also: FLF apologises, launches ethics probe after Rodrigues controversy
This body, Philipp added, is intended to offer support, not punishment.
At a post-match press conference, national coach Luc Holtz deflected questions about Rodrigues, saying he had focused solely on the game. He added he would reflect on the broader situation in the coming days.
