The signing of a partnership deal between the prestigious French football club Olympique de Marseille (OM) and Turkish Airlines on August 30 has angered the local Armenian community. 

A statement issued by Coordination Council of Armenian Organizations in France (CCAF-South), noted that this partnership "between the Turkish national carrier Turkish Airlines and Olympique de Marseille has angered French-Armenians and all supporters of the club bearer of the good image of Marseille. 

They don't understand this alliance [...] representing the denialist Turkish state, heir and criminal accomplice of Armenian Genocide.  [...] This sponsorship is unbearable. We all love the Olympique de Marseille, and therefore we feel like a betrayal. [...] It is an affront to the memory of the genocide victims and the dignity of the descendants of genocide survivors on the eve of the centenary celebrations of genocide,” read the statement. 

In addition, many supporters OM Club have announced a boycott the 2013-2014 season saying it was shameful. 

This partnership signed for the 2013/2014 season will promote the arrival of the Turkish Airlines to the Marseille airport. On June 4, Turkish Airlines   inaugurated new direct service between Istanbul and Marseille. 

The CEO of Marseille Turkish Airlines,Ehran Ipeck, said he was satisfied with the agreement reached with OM. 

Jean Eckian / Paris