French football star Wissam Ben Yedder was sentenced to two years in prison on November 12, following a trial in France related to a sexual assault case. The former France international, known for his prolific career with AS Monaco, faced charges of rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault, stemming from an alleged incident in southern France.
The court’s ruling came after the prosecution requested a two-year sentence. During the trial, Frank Michel, the victim’s lawyer, argued that his client was traumatized by the incident and sought €25,000 in damages. Michel has the option to appeal the decision.
The case began in September 2024, when a woman filed a complaint against Ben Yedder, claiming she was assaulted by him in his car on the French Riviera. Following the incident, Ben Yedder, 34, was arrested after he initially failed to comply with police orders to stop his car. Officers eventually detained him at his home, leading to a six-month suspension of his driver’s license.
In court, Ben Yedder admitted to driving under the influence at the time of his arrest, which led him to begin an alcohol treatment program. However, he denied any memory of a sexual assault and maintained his innocence. Despite his defense, the court found him guilty.
Ben Yedder, whose contract with AS Monaco ended after last season, has been without a club. His last season saw him score 16 goals, helping Monaco secure second place in the French league behind Paris Saint-Germain. Over his five seasons with Monaco, he netted 118 goals, becoming the club’s second-highest scorer after Delio Onnis.
Ben Yedder’s international career included 19 caps for France, with his most recent appearance in June 2022.
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