In contrast, the magistrate has requested sentences ranging from one year in prison suspended to three years, half of which suspended, for five other defendants prosecuted for aggravated pimping.
Zahia, who had also requested the release of the two footballers, is no longer a civil party in the trial. The accusations against Ribéry and Benzema stem from events before the 2010 World Cup, with Ribéry accused of having sexual relations with Zahia in 2009, and Benzema suspected of similar actions in 2008, which he disputes.
Both Ribéry and Benzema did not attend their trial. Zahia, who started prostitution at around 15-16 years old, claimed to have received 700 euros in cash from Ribéry for her services. The trial, which began in June and was postponed for procedural reasons, highlights the complex legal issues surrounding the case and the differing perspectives of the involved parties.
