Morocco: Wydad’s Mehdi Benabid under scrutiny over alleged offensive language

Wydad Athletic Club goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid could face disciplinary action in Morocco after footage circulating on social media allegedly showed him using offensive language during a Botola Pro match against Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi.

According to Radio Mars, the Moroccan Professional League is preparing a disciplinary file and a formal complaint over the reported incident, which took place during the 2026-2027 season.

No official sanction has been announced, and Benabid’s disciplinary status remains unresolved as the relevant authorities consider the matter.

Benabid awaits official notification

Reports indicate that the referee’s report, the match delegate’s observations and video footage could be submitted to the relevant disciplinary and ethics committee for review.

If the authorities establish a violation, the Wydad goalkeeper could face a suspension or financial penalty.

However, sources close to Benabid have reportedly indicated that he has not received any official notification concerning a complaint.

Radio Mars also reported that the goalkeeper has continued training normally at Wydad’s Benjelloun training complex while remaining focused on his sporting commitments.

The absence of formal notification means there is no confirmed disciplinary decision against the player at this stage.

Moroccan football faces increased disciplinary scrutiny

The reported case involving Benabid comes amid wider disciplinary scrutiny in Moroccan football, with other players also linked to potential proceedings over alleged misconduct.

Moroccan media have reported possible disciplinary action involving Marouane Ouhrou of Maghreb Fes following an incident during his side’s recent match against Raja Club Athletic.

Other cases cited in coverage of disciplinary measures include incidents involving Wydad Temara player Othmane Sabri and Ittihad Tanger goalkeeper Badr Eddine Abair.

Each case remains subject to its own assessment by the relevant authorities, and the reports do not establish that any player has been found guilty of misconduct.

Wydad await clarity over goalkeeper’s status

Any suspension involving Benabid could affect Wydad’s plans for upcoming Botola Pro fixtures, although the goalkeeper’s immediate availability remains unconfirmed pending an official decision.

The case also highlights the role of social media footage alongside official match reports in investigations into alleged misconduct in Moroccan football.

Until the league or its disciplinary committee announces a formal decision, the allegations against Benabid remain unconfirmed, and any potential punishment is still subject to the disciplinary process.