The show must go on. That is the brave message from the French Football Federation, who have confirmed that Tuesday’s friendly with England will go ahead despite last night’s tragedies in Paris.
As BBC Sport reports, at least 128 people have been killed following a series of attacks, one of which appeared to target the Stade de France while the men’s national team hosted Germany in a friendly.
SEE MORE: Anthony Martial & Arsenal ace combine brilliantly for France in 2-0 win
Watch more brilliant snippets like this with fanatix’s FREE sports video news app.
French President Francois Hollande has declared three days of mourning, but Les Bleus will travel to Wembley unless there are strong objections from playing staff or coaches, according to The Telegraph.
FA chairman Greg Dyke is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: “Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the city of Paris after these terrible atrocities. On behalf of the FA, I want to express our sorrow and send our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of those who have lost their lives.
“After consulting this morning with the French Football Federation and the British Government, we have decided together that the match between our two countries at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday should go ahead.
“We will use the opportunity to pay our respects to all affected and also to express our solidarity with the people of France.”
However, several sporting fixtures have been postponed, including all European Rugby Champions Cup and Challenge Cup ties set to be played in France this weekend, and four Coupe de France matches.
England and France last met in the group stages of Euro 2012, with the scores ending 1-1. On Tuesday, the result will be secondary to the countries coming together to honour those whose lives were taken.
SEE ALSO:
Paris attacks: Chilling moment explosion can be heard from inside Stade de France (video)
Robbie Brady secures advantage for Republic of Ireland in Euro 2016 playoff (video)
Mario Gaspar scores stunning goal as Arsenal star wraps up Spain win (video)
COMMENTS