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Moroccan footballer Zakaria Aboukhlal wins his defamation lawsuit against RMC Sport

Moroccan footballer Zakaria Aboukhlal wins his defamation lawsuit against RMC Sport

Ya Biladi18-02-2025
Zakaria Aboukhlal, forward and vice-captain of Toulouse FC, won his case this Tuesday, February 18, in the defamation case against RMC Sport, reports L'Equipe. The Paris Court of Appeal ruled defamatory an article published in May 2023, in which the radio reported controversial remarks allegedly made by the player towards Laurence Arribagé, former Deputy for Sports of the Toulouse City Hall.
The incident, which occurred after TFC's victory in the French Cup, led to Aboukhlal's temporary sidelining. According to RMC Sport, he allegedly responded to the official: «In my country, women don't speak to men like that». These accusations, which the player has always denied, were supported by several witnesses.
While the radio was acquitted in the first instance, Arthur Dreyfuss, former general director of RMC, was ordered to pay a symbolic one euro in damages.
This decision marks a turning point for Aboukhlal, whose image had been tarnished by this controversy. Back on the field after a long injury, the Moroccan international is gradually regaining his form, having already scored six goals in Ligue 1 this season.
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