Algerian international and Esperance star Youcef Belaïli has been released from police custody following his arrest at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport on Wednesday evening.
The 33-year-old was reportedly involved in an altercation with cabin crew while on board an Air France flight from New York to Paris.
He was detained upon arrival in Paris, where he was expected to connect to Algeria.
The incident is said to have stemmed from a disagreement over the enforcement of seatbelt rules.
Belaïli’s father claimed his son was unfairly treated, saying, “My son, Youcef, was wronged at Charles de Gaulle Airport… the French police humiliated him despite his status as an international footballer.”
Air France confirmed that the crew contacted authorities after Belaïli allegedly behaved inappropriately during the flight. The airline stated that formal complaints were filed by the crew members involved.
Footage circulating on social media appeared to show police escorting Belaïli off the aircraft.
However, the French public prosecutor later ruled there was insufficient basis to press criminal charges, leading to his release.
