FRANCE 98 – Match no. 38: FRANCE – DENMARK (Group C): Statement by Jacques CHIRAC, President of FRANCE

“I’m very happy about the qualification of the FRANCE team and the result here today. I congratulate them for their fine performances to date, notably that of Marcel DESAILLY (8) for his marvellous match. I don’t watch all the matches but I have them recorded and I watch them afterwards.

Violence has nothing to do with sport. All these thugs that we have seen lately, didn’t come to support but to cause trouble. On this subject I must say that the UNITED STATES – IRAN (Group F) match played at LYON was a fine example of détente. This match gave the world a beautiful image of the sort of peace and harmony that only sport can provide.

You will see me at the final and I’m even starting to dream a little… If I had been a player, I would like to have been a goalkeeper because they have the qualities of speed and finesse and they are also the last line of defence in times of trouble.”