Youcef Atal, the football player for OGC Nice, a Ligue 1 club, is in the crosshairs of justice. A preliminary investigation for “ apology for terrorism » was opened against him. The Algerian international is suspected of having relayed comments on the networks inciting hatred, linked to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
2 mins
Youcef Atal, 27-year-old football player, relayed on Saturday October 14 on his Instagram account a video of Palestinian preacher Mahmoud al-Hassanat. The preaching “ asks God to send a dark day on the Jews and to accompany the hand of the inhabitants of Gaza if they throw stones. » The reactions were quick. During the weekend, the French Football Federation, the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (CRIF) and the mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, strongly condemned the attitude of Youcef Atal.
The Algerian international, winner of the CAN with the Fennecs in 2019, and player at OGC Nice since 2018, deleted his publication. On Instagram, he reacted this Sunday. Without explaining why he shared this hateful video, he wrote: “ I would like to clarify my point of view without any ambiguity. I strongly condemn all forms of violence, anywhere in the world. “, by adding : ” I support all the victims. I will never support a message of hatred. »
Strong criticism
Apologies that do not mitigate the criticism. In a press release, Senator LR Stéphane Le Rudulier called on OGC Nice to exclude the player and asked the Minister of Sports “ exemplary and historic sanctions “.
A preliminary investigation for “ apology for terrorism ” and for ” incitement to hatred or violence based on a specific religion » was opened by the Nice public prosecutor’s office against him. In its short press release, the prosecution specified that it had been contacted by the prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, Hugues Moutouh, and Christian Estrosi “ of facts likely to be attributed (to Mr. Atal) with the dissemination last week of messages on social networks “.
(And with AFP)