Judge Mahmoud El-Banna has confirmed that the Court of First Instance found Ahmed Hossam Mido guilty and handed him a one-month prison sentence, which was later reduced on appeal to a fine of 20,000 pounds, with the court stopping short of acquitting him.
El-Banna revealed that several attempts were made by intermediaries in recent months to broker a reconciliation with Mido, but he firmly rejected the idea.
He said the remarks directed at him went beyond acceptable criticism, describing them as mocking, abusive and damaging to his integrity and personal honour.
The international referee noted that Mido later sought to downplay the incident by claiming he had not intended to offend, but insisted this did not alter the facts of the case or undo the harm caused by statements that were widely circulated and deeply offensive.
El-Banna concluded by announcing his intention to take further legal action in the coming period, including filing a civil lawsuit seeking compensation.
He stressed that his dignity and reputation are non-negotiable, adding that turning to the law remains the only appropriate course of action in such circumstances.
