Monaco footballer Mohamed Camara has been banned for four matches for taping over an anti-homophobia logo on his shirt during a Ligue 1 game, the French League (LFP) announced on Thursday.

The LFP stated that the decision came after hearing Camara and noting his refusal to participate in awareness-raising actions against homophobia. The incident occurred during Monaco's final game of the season against Nantes on May 19, where Camara concealed the logo and opted out of a group photo supporting the LGBTQ community.

Despite the potential for a ten-match suspension under the French Football Federation's disciplinary guidelines, the LFP settled on a four-match ban. Monaco's general manager, Thiago Scuro, expressed respect for the decision and confirmed that the club would not appeal.

"Our concern was to address the situation, clarify our stance against discrimination and homophobia, and explain to Mo (Camara) how his behavior could have been different," Scuro stated. "Monaco supports the League's actions and the fight against homophobia."

Camara, who cited religious reasons for his actions, received support from the Malian Football Federation (FMF), which emphasized the player's right to freedom of expression. The FMF released a statement defending Camara's decision, asserting that players' fundamental rights must be protected.

While Camara faced criticism from France's sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, who called for severe sanctions, he garnered widespread support in Mali for adhering to his personal and religious beliefs.

The midfielder, who scored in the match Monaco won 4-0, will serve his suspension during the first four Ligue 1 matches of the next season, starting on August 16. He will, however, be available to play in two matches with the Mali national team in early June.