Wissam Ben Yedder, a former striker for the French national soccer team, was sentenced to a suspended two-year prison term after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman in a highly publicized case in France. His lawyers announced Tuesday that Ben Yedder plans to appeal the ruling, citing his intent to challenge the legal characterization of the incident as sexual assault. The decision follows a recent trial held in the southern city of Nice, where details of the case and Ben Yedder’s actions were carefully examined by the court.
During the trial, the prosecutor initially sought a sentence of two years and six months, including 18 months suspended. Ultimately, Ben Yedder received a lesser penalty, which still includes a requirement to pay the victim 5,000 euros (around $5,300) as compensation. The court’s verdict reflects the seriousness of the allegations, as the soccer star also faces other legal penalties and restrictions.
Details of the Case and Legal Proceedings
The incident that led to Ben Yedder’s sentencing involved accusations of sexual assault while intoxicated. According to reports, the alleged assault occurred in Ben Yedder’s car on the French Riviera, after which he initially attempted to avoid police by refusing to stop his vehicle. He was eventually arrested at his home later that night and briefly detained before being released. The incident left the victim traumatized, and her lawyer, Frank Michel, emphasized during the trial that she experienced severe emotional distress and initially sought damages totaling 25,000 euros.
In addition to the suspended sentence, Ben Yedder has been ordered to undergo treatment, part of which includes therapy for alcohol use. The court also imposed a six-month suspension of his driver’s license following his admission of driving under the influence on the night of the incident. In court, Ben Yedder acknowledged his level of intoxication, stating that he was so drunk he could not recall any act of sexual assault.
A Downturn in Ben Yedder’s Career Following Incident
Since his contract with Monaco expired last season, Ben Yedder has been without a professional soccer club, marking a significant shift for a player who once shone in the French league. Last season, Ben Yedder delivered an impressive performance with 16 goals and three assists, helping Monaco finish second in Ligue 1 behind Paris Saint-Germain. Throughout his five-year tenure with Monaco, he scored 118 goals in 201 appearances, becoming the club’s second-highest scorer in its history, trailing only Argentine legend Delio Onnis.
Despite the court ruling and its impact on his public image, Ben Yedder’s legal team disclosed that he has recently resumed intensive physical training and is hopeful of returning to the sport. According to his lawyers, Yedder’s treatment and commitment to rehabilitation have renewed his determination to play professional soccer once again.
Separate Legal Battle Looming Amid Recent Conviction
In addition to this case, Ben Yedder faces a separate set of preliminary charges for rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault over an unrelated incident in southern France. These allegations continue to compound his legal challenges, casting a shadow over his potential return to the soccer field and further complicating his public standing. The new charges suggest a pattern of troubling behavior that legal experts believe could significantly impact his future in both personal and professional spheres.
While Ben Yedder’s lawyers, Marie Roumiantseva and Hasna Louzé, have stated their intention to appeal the recent sexual assault ruling, this additional legal case presents yet another hurdle for the 34-year-old former national player. If convicted on these new charges, he could face even harsher penalties, and the outlook on his career remains uncertain as legal battles continue to unfold.
