Roland Romeyer Under Investigation: A Deep Dive into the Allegations Against ASSE’s Former President
In a shocking turn of events, Roland Romeyer , the long-serving president of AS Saint-Étienne (ASSE), finds himself at the center of a preliminary investigation launched by the Saint-Étienne prosecution. The investigation focuses on allegations of sexist behavior and sexual harassment . The gravity of these accusations is amplified by the fact that they are reportedly made against someone in a hierarchical superior position , which raises serious ethical concerns within the realm of sports management.
An Atmosphere of Fear and Intimidation
The allegations come to light through testimonies collected during awareness workshops held in collaboration with the advocacy group Her Game Too in 2024 and 2025. These workshops aimed to address and eliminate sexism in sports environments, but they have instead revealed a series of unacceptable behaviors allegedly perpetuated by Romeyer. These actions include, but are not limited to, non-consensual touching , such as inappropriate hand placements in corridors and unwelcome kisses.
Many employees have reported a toxic work environment that Romeyer was allegedly responsible for creating. The incidents range from catcalling to the enactment of dehumanizing nicknames , like “My chip” and “My schoolboy.” Such actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for personal boundaries and contribute to a culture where harassment is normalized.
The Sketch That Shocked
One particularly shocking instance involves a woman who claims that Romeyer drew a crude illustration referencing her chest during an inappropriate comment. He allegedly quipped about this drawing, suggesting it resembled the Ardèche gorges , a remark that many found not only offensive but also indicative of a broader pattern of disrespect.
Specific phrases attributed to Romeyer, such as “Haven’t you passed under the office yet?” and “Did you come as a decapotable?” exhibit a troubling trend of sexual innuendos aimed at his employees. These statements contribute to an environment of discomfort and fear, where employees may feel hesitant to report such mistreatment.
Internal Investigations and Responses
Following these allegations, an internal investigation within ASSE was initiated, resulting in interviews with 14 individuals reportedly affected by this behavior. The club’s leadership is now faced with the challenging task of addressing these claims while considering the implications of Romeyer’s long tenure at the club until June 2024, when he sold ASSE to a Canadian group led by Kilmer .
In response to the unfolding situation, Romeyer issued a press release categorically denying all allegations against him. He claims to be unaware of the specifics being discussed and affirms his intent to defend himself vigorously when the time comes. His attorney, Me Jean-Félix Luciani , echoed these sentiments by stating that Romeyer “ denies any sexual harassment. ” This defense seemingly emphasizes his belief in his innocence amidst swirling accusations.
The Implications for ASSE and Beyond
These revelations pose a substantial challenge not only for Romeyer but also for ASSE, as the club’s reputation is called into question. The unfolding situation highlights the urgent need for sports organizations to foster a safe and respectful work environment. This includes implementing stringent policies against harassment and ensuring that employees feel empowered to speak up without fear of retaliation.
Moreover, this case reflects a broader societal concern about sexual harassment in workplaces globally. The testimonies gathered raise questions about how such behaviors can persist unchecked over years, particularly in environments where power dynamics create imbalances. It serves as a stark reminder that change is necessary not just within sports clubs, but across various sectors to cultivate environments where all individuals can thrive free from harassment and intimidation.
The unfolding situation with Roland Romeyer is a critical moment for AS Saint-Étienne and highlights the imperative for increased awareness and adherence to ethical standards across all levels of leadership. The club and the wider community will be keenly watching how these allegations will be handled, hoping for a resolution that fosters a healthier environment for all.