Former French national team player faces retrial for rape

Former French national team striker Wissam Ben Yedder, 35, will face trial for rape, attempted rape and sexual assault, according to the investigating judge’s decision in Nice this Monday (3). The case, originating in 2023, involves accusations from two young women who the Ben Yedder brothers met at a party near Monaco. The Nice Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the referral to the departmental criminal court, where the defendants could face up to 15 years in prison.

Wissam’s brother, Sabri Ben Yedder, is also in the case for rape and sexual assault. The investigations began after complaints from the victims, who reported the facts to the local police. The judge followed the prosecution’s recommendation and expanded the cartoons against Wissam.

• Main charges: rape and sexual assault for both brothers.
• Additional for Wissam: attempted rape.
• Location of crime: region close to Monaco, in 2023.
• Maximum penalty: 15 years in prison.

Ben Yedder, who played 19 matches for the French national team and scored three goals, has had recent legal controversies. These episodes overshadow his career, marked by victorious spells at Sevilla and Monaco.

Recent criminal record

In September 2025, the Nice correctional court sentenced Wissam Ben Yedder to pay a fine of 90 thousand euros for psychological violence against his wife, with whom he initiated a divorce. The decision came after analyzing the evidence presentedby the prosecution.

In autumn 2024, another trial in Nice resulted in a two-year suspended prison sentence for sexual assault against a young girl. Ben Yedder appealed the sentence, which included a ban on contact with the victim.

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Trajetória no futebol europeu

Wissam Ben Yedder destacou-se como segundo maior artilheiro da história do Monaco, com mais de 100 gols em competições oficiais. Ele deixou o clube em junho de 2024, após fim de contrato.

Sem equipe por meses, o atacante tentou relançar a carreira no Sepahan SC, do Irã, em abril de 2025, mas não obteve sucesso. Em setembro, assinou com o Sakaryaspor, da segunda divisão turca, onde atua atualmente.

• Goals for Monaco: 114 in 197 games.
• Main titles: Europa League with Sevilla (2020).
• French team: 19 games, 3 goals between 2018 and 2020.

His time at Sevilla, from 2016 to 2019, included a conviction for tax fraud, resolved with the payment of a fine. These tax incidents occurred during the height of the player’s career.

2023 Investigation Details

The accusations arose after a party at which the brothers met the victims. The young women gave detailed statements to the police, leading to the temporary arrest of Wissam and Sabri for 48 hours.

The investigation continued with expert examinations and hearings, culminating in the judge’s decision in November 2025. The prosecution emphasized the seriousness of the acts, based on evidence collected.

During the process, Ben Yedder maintained a professional routine, but avoided public comments about the case. His lawyers disputed parts of the allegations, preparing a defense for trial.

The Alpes-Maritimes departmental criminal court will schedule the date for the oral debate soon, with the expectation of analyzing technical and testimonial evidence. Victims receive psychological support via French public services.

History of domestic violence

The fine of 90 thousand euros imposed in September reflects a pattern of verbal aggression and excessive control over the partner. The divorce continuesin parallel, with division of assets under discussion.

Ben Yedder appeared in person at the Nice court for sentencing, where he heard the decision read. The prosecution requested a more severe penalty, but the judge opted for a fine.

Current position at Sakaryaspor

At the Turkish club, the striker has played eight matches since September 2025, scoring two goals in the second division. The contract runs until June 2026, with a modest salary compared to previous seasons.

The Sakaryaspor board is monitoring the legal case, but kept the player in the squad. Trainers highlight your fitness despite external distractions.

Turkish football offers limited visibility, but allows professional continuity. Ben Yedder trains regularly, focusing on elite access goals.