Translation: Press Release from the Strasbourg Supporters' Federation
On 24th September 2024, the Fédération Supporters Racing Strasbourg (@fsrcs) released an updated press release version. I’ve taken the time to translate it into English for your convenience.
Translation:
An article published by Pokaa last week described the atmosphere at the Meinau during RCS-Angers as "toxic," which unsurprisingly sparked many reactions. More broadly, the validity of people's attitudes when it comes to singing (or not), cheering (or not), and booing (or not) is currently the subject of a lively debate.
One can, of course, lament that the enthusiasm which once characterised the Meinau a few years ago has given way to a much more divided atmosphere. However, the goal here isn’t to debate the causes or alternatives. Rather, it's to modestly remind everyone that behind the stadium’s atmosphere are passionate people, doing their best with their convictions, their hearts, and their guts.
The behind-the-scenes work: on all matters related, even loosely, to fan culture, associations have acted—and continue to act—in cooperation with the club and authorities to ensure the best possible atmosphere in a safe environment, while also defending the vision of a popular football culture and promoting the Racing spirit. For those involved, this has meant thousands of hours spent in meetings, sometimes reaching compromises, at other times remaining steadfast. Who knows that each year, the associations have negotiated to maintain affordable season ticket prices so that the Meinau remains accessible to as many people as possible? Who remembers that in 2016, the KOP leaders had to explain to the players that copying the Icelandic-style clapping wasn't desirable because the stands wanted to forge their own path rather than merely mimicking others? Who knows that a few years ago, Racing almost played in pink at home against Marseille, and this absurdity was only narrowly avoided thanks to strong mobilisation by the associations?
Let’s also note that the role of the SLO (Supporter Liaison Officer) has been crucial in this behind-the-scenes work over the past few years.
The atmosphere is a fragile ecosystem: No one is the owner or even the custodian of the fervour that the Meinau can produce at its best. Without the KOP to lead, the stadium feels hollow. Without the other stands to respond, the engine falters. Everyone is aware of this, and the choice of chants is a delicate balance between the search for novelty and complexity, as well as the classic hits that resonate best with a large audience. In this respect, Strasbourg has indeed come out of a fairly prosperous period, but if we look further back, the stadium was often described as hostile and cold by the same journalists who later oversold it as an exceptional cauldron. Judging the atmosphere is a highly subjective exercise, and the perspective from which you view it is almost more important than the actual content.
When the passion fades: To start, pick up, and sustain a chant requires motivation, energy, and conviction. Unfortunately, something broke on 22 June 2023 when Racing was propelled, against the will of many of its fans, into the infernal world of Multiclub Ownership. The following year only intensified the growing disconnection. After a long debate, a decision was made, and it was a heartbreaking one for all involved. It’s obviously open to criticism, but to truly critique it, one must first reflect empathetically on the conflicting emotions of those who made it. The simple fact that it has sparked so much discussion greatly undermines the argument that "it was pointless." Clearly, the issue stirs strong feelings, and the famous fifteen minutes of silence serve to expose a discontent that the club’s management might prefer to ignore.
An open door for dialogue: Discussion is always possible when there’s mutual respect, and this remains true with the vast majority of supporters and, more generally, with all those who hold Racing close to their hearts. Our premises, close to the stadium, are open to all, and the ideal place to talk about it. Come through the door and eat a sausage or a tarte flambée with us to talk about the mobilisation, the future of Racing... or just the match”.
Translated by BlueCo Xtra
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