The fate of Algerian international footballer Youcef Atal, who plays for OGC Nice, hangs in the balance as justice is set to deliver its verdict on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. Atal faces charges for sharing a video that called for “a black day on the Jews” during the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The trial, which took place at the Nice criminal court on December 18, saw the prosecution seek a ten-month suspended prison sentence for provoking hatred based on religion.
Additionally, a fine of 45,000 euros and the publication of the conviction on the homepage of Atal’s Instagram account, boasting over 3.2 million subscribers, were requested.
Despite being summoned to the Algerian national team for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to commence next week in Ivory Coast, the 27-year-old player is not expected to be present for the verdict.
The controversy emerged when, five days after the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent Israeli bombing of Gaza, Atal shared a video on Instagram featuring preacher Mahmoud Al Hasanat.
The video depicted Hasanat emotionally discussing the plight of Gazan children under bombardment, eventually calling for a “dark day on the Jews” and invoking divine support for Gazan residents throwing stones.
During the trial, Atal reiterated his apology, emphasizing that he intended to convey a “message of peace” and had not watched the video in its entirety before sharing it.
However, this explanation failed to convince the deputy prosecutor, Meggi Choutia, and the civil parties, including Jewish groups and the Professional Football League (LFP).
Choutia argued that sharing the video amounted to endorsing the comments and giving them visibility, dismissing Atal’s claim of promoting peace.
While the verdict will soon be known, the case has stirred significant debate, and Atal has faced repercussions in his football career, remaining suspended by his club and serving a seven-match ban from LFP disciplinary actions.
Atal, known for his prowess as a fast and offensive right-back, has received considerable support in Algeria.
He maintained in court that he holds no hatred against any religious or ethnic group, emphasizing his previous willingness to play in Tel Aviv with Nice during the 2022 European Cup.
