Troyes part ways with sporting director Jocelyn Blanchard under investigation for sexist behaviour

Three lines, on a Friday evening, on the eve of hosting Lens: ESTAC have announced the departure of their sporting director Jocelyn Blanchard, appointed this summer, “with immediate effect”. The statement is brief and gives no reason for the exit.

Two inquiries, one internal, one judicial

Jocelyn Blanchard, 54, a former midfielder turned sporting executive, had been under internal investigation since 30 September, an inquiry opened by the City Football Group, the club’s parent company. Several female employees reported sexist remarks and inappropriate gestures. Elisa Sicking-Bressler, the group’s head of protection for minors and vulnerable people, travelled to the Aube.

The judiciary has followed: public prosecutor Isabelle Verissimo has confirmed an investigation into sexist behaviour by the 54-year-old, handed to the Troyes police station. “Jocelyn Blanchard is presumed innocent,” RMC Sport recalls.

A replacement promised, Lens next

The club promise the project continues: “L’Estac will ensure the continuity of its sporting project and will shortly begin the process of recruiting a new sporting director.” The search for a successor opens in mid-season. The calendar does not wait: 17th with 4 points from six matches, Troyes host Lens on Saturday evening, kick-off 8.45pm in France.

The exit moves no line. On Friday evening Lens remained favourites at 1.87 with 10BET and a home win traded above 4.30, odds barely shifted since opening. A sporting director does not defend a channel: this match remains the business of the eleven who take the pitch, in our Troyes vs Lens prediction. 18+. Only bet what you can afford to lose.