International football defender Youcef Atal, currently facing legal repercussions for alleged incitement to hatred, appeared before the Nice criminal court yesterday, as the uncertainty surrounding his career looms large.
While awaiting the final verdict that could significantly impact his professional trajectory, Atal’s seven-match suspension, handed down by the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP), is set to conclude tomorrow evening after the match against Lens, marking the 17th day of the French Ligue 1.
Facing a robust defense mounted by lawyers representing seven civil parties, including Crif Sud-Est, Licra, the Jewish Observatory of France, and the Professional Football League, the 2019 African champion defended himself against charges that have put his career on hold.
Originally accused of “apology of terrorism and incitement to hatred on grounds of religion,” Atal now faces the latter charge alone.
As he arrived at the Nice courthouse, surrounded by his legal representative, Maître Antoine Vey, the atmosphere was tense, with the presence of numerous journalists prompting the court to relocate to a larger venue.
Atal’s lawyer, Me Vey, immediately sought to challenge the charge on grounds of formal defects.
“Can Youcef Atal be tried in Nice? Are we applying French law? The video was posted in a foreign language from abroad, and Mr. Atal is a foreign national,” questioned the defense.
In response, prosecutor Maud Marty asserted that Atal, based in Nice, shared the video on his Instagram account, followed by a public associated with OGC Nice, and part of the French community is Arabic-speaking.
During the hearing, Atal expressed remorse, stating, “I shared this video because it was a message of peace for me.
I regret.” He emphasized his role as a football player and disavowed any intention to delve into politics. Confronted with questions about his Instagram post’s potential to incite serious acts, Atal conceded that, upon reflection, the video could have such an effect, leading him to remove it.
The court proceedings shed light on the financial toll on Atal, who disclosed, “I lost a lot of money,” acknowledging the impact not only on his sporting career but also on a personal level.
The president of the court inquired about the cost of a suspended match, to which Atal responded, “I don’t know exactly, but a lot of money.”
As the legal saga unfolds, Atal’s future in football remains uncertain, adding a layer of complexity to his already challenging journey.
