Stanislav Cherchesov, the head coach of the Kazakhstan national football team, has been ranked ninth in the list of the “Top 10 Most Unfortunate Football Incidents of 2024,” presented by the Russian “Мяч Production” YouTube channel, reports the national portal Adyrna, citing Offside.kz.
To recall, during a Nations League post-match press conference after the game against Slovenia, a journalist asked Cherchesov a question in Kazakh. However, the head coach responded jokingly, “What language are you speaking—French?”
This remark went beyond the realm of football, sparking significant public outcry. The incident became a hot topic on social media, in the press, and even in Kazakhstan’s Parliament (Mazhilis).
It was emphasized that those working in Kazakhstan must respect the Kazakh language, and Cherchesov was fined as a result.