A prosecutor in France has requested a sentence of two years and six months, with 18 months suspended, for soccer player Wissam Ben Yedder, who recently faced trial for allegations of sexual assault against a woman.
During the proceedings, the prosecutor indicated that while jail time is being sought, the firm prison term might be adjustable. Ben Yedder’s legal representation expressed optimism about the outcome, suggesting that they believe he may avoid incarceration even in the event of a conviction, as stated by his lawyer, Marie Roumiantseva, on Wednesday.
As the case unfolds, Ben Yedder has remained at liberty prior to the hearing, which was held in Nice. The charges against him stem from an alleged incident of sexual assault while he was under the influence of alcohol. Roumiantseva remarked, “Although not a single day in prison against Ben Yedder has been requested, the penalties proposed are quite severe for actions that are legally dubious and not particularly severe.”
The ruling is anticipated on November 12. This hearing was initiated following a lawsuit filed by a woman accusing Ben Yedder of sexual assault last month.
At 34 years of age, Ben Yedder, known for his goal-scoring abilities and his tenure with the national team, was briefly detained after an incident involving his car on the French Riviera. He was arrested at his residence later that evening after initially failing to stop his vehicle.
Following his arrest, Ben Yedder acknowledged his struggles with alcohol, mentioning that he has since begun detox and therapy. He testified during the trial that he was heavily intoxicated at the time of the incident and has no memory of any sexual assault taking place.
Ben Yedder’s legal team is pursuing an acquittal on the sexual offense, claiming that the allegations lack sufficient evidence. Meanwhile, the plaintiff’s attorney, Frank Michel, described her condition as one of “shock” during the trial and is seeking 25,000 euros (approximately $27,225) in damages, as reported by L’Equipe newspaper.
The prosecution has also called for a six-month suspension of Ben Yedder’s driving license.
In a separate legal matter from the previous year, Ben Yedder faced serious charges including rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault related to another incident in southern France. Additionally, he has been without a club since his contract with Monaco was not renewed after last season.
Last season, he contributed significantly to Monaco’s performance by scoring 16 goals and providing three assists, ultimately helping the team secure a second-place finish in the French league, just behind Paris Saint-Germain. Over five seasons with Monaco, Ben Yedder netted 118 goals in 201 appearances across various competitions, making him the club’s second-highest scorer, following retired Argentine striker Delio Onnis, who scored 223 goals.
Ben Yedder has earned 19 caps for the French national team, with his most recent appearance occurring in June 2022.