Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Patrice Evra

Public opinion and media debates around Patrice Evra—discover key moments of controversy.

Patrice Evra is a French former professional footballer renowned as one of the best left-backs of his generation. He captained both Manchester United and the French national team, demonstrating leadership qualities throughout his career. Evra's accomplishments include being named to the PFA Team of the Year three times, as well as earning spots in the FIFPro World XI and UEFA Team of the Year, solidifying his status as a top player. Initially a forward, he transitioned to left-back, showcasing his versatility and adaptability on the field.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

July 2008: FA Charges Evra with Improper Conduct

On July 18, 2008, Evra was charged with four counts of improper conduct by the FA, related to an incident in April during a warm-down following a match against Chelsea where he had an altercation with a groundsman. Evra denied the charges, claiming he was racially abused.

December 2008: Evra Found Guilty of Improper Conduct and Banned

On December 5, 2008, Evra was found guilty of improper conduct and handed a four-match ban and a £15,000 fine, due to start on December 22, related to the incident with the Chelsea groundsman.

June 2010: Player Protest and Captaincy Stripped

In June 2010, following Nicolas Anelka's dismissal, Evra led a player protest, refusing to train. He was subsequently stripped of the captaincy and benched for the final group stage match. France was eliminated from the World Cup.

2010: FIFA World Cup

In 2010, Patrice Evra participated in the FIFA World Cup and was named captain of the national team. France had a poor campaign, and Evra was suspended for five matches due to a player strike.

November 2017: Released by Marseille

In November 2017, Patrice Evra was released by Marseille and banned from UEFA competition for seven months after kicking a fan before a UEFA Europa League match.

November 2017: Suspension and Contract Termination

In November 2017, Patrice Evra was suspended indefinitely by Marseille after kicking a fan. He also received a violent conduct charge from UEFA, leading to a ban from UEFA competitions until June 2018. Marseille subsequently terminated Evra's contract.

June 2018: UEFA Ban

In June 2018, Evra was ineligible to play in any UEFA competitions, due to the UEFA ban he received after kicking a fan in November 2017.

March 2019: Denial of Homophobic Comments

In March 2019, Evra denied making homophobic comments against Paris Saint-Germain.

October 2021: Allegation of Sexual Abuse

In October 2021, Evra alleged that he was sexually abused by a teacher when he was 13. He said he was interviewed by police regarding the abuse at age 24 but denied it.

February 2023: Conviction and Fine for Homophobic Remarks

In February 2023, Evra was convicted, fined, and ordered to pay compensation to two anti-hate campaigns by a Parisian court for homophobic remarks he made in a 2019 video.

July 2024: Guilty verdict and sentence for Evra

In July 2024, Patrice Evra was found guilty by a French court of abandoning his wife and their two children, receiving a suspended 12-month prison sentence. He also owes over £800k in unpaid alimony.