Benzema files defamation suit after Darmanin links him to a banned group
Karim Benzema, the veteran striker still making waves in the Saudi Pro League, has filed a defamation lawsuit against French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin. The action follows Darmanin’s assertion that Benzema maintains ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, a designation that varies by country and has led to bans in several jurisdictions. The lawsuit cites investigative reporting that helped shape the way these allegations reached readers around the world. Coverage by AFP highlighted key details that sharpened the framing of the dispute for an international audience. AFP is cited as the source of those details in this narrative.
In October, Benzema publicly voiced support for Gaza on the X platform. Darmanin responded quickly by claiming a close association between the player and the Muslim Brotherhood. Benzema has repeatedly denied any affiliation and stated that he does not know anyone who claims membership in the group. The filing argues that Darmanin’s statements harmed Benzema’s honor and professional reputation, branding the remarks as unfounded and damaging to the trajectory of his career.
Later in the year, Benzema left Saudi Arabia and did not take part in Al Ittihad’s final training sessions for reasons not disclosed publicly. Upon his return, reports indicated he missed a team meeting and faced a suspension from the club. This incident has fed into a broader debate about how political statements by public figures can intersect with professional sports careers abroad and influence opportunities for elite athletes in international leagues.
Since joining Al Ittihad in mid-2023, Benzema has appeared in 15 league matches this season, scoring nine goals and providing five assists. His move to the Saudi club followed a long tenure at Real Madrid, where he spent 14 seasons and helped secure a wealth of trophies. During his time with Madrid, he contributed to four La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey trophies, and five Champions League triumphs, underscoring a career defined by consistent scoring and decisive contributions in major European competitions. This track record illustrates how off‑field disputes can influence a player’s professional path when crossing international borders.
Media attention surrounding the case has broadened the discussion beyond sports. A remark by a French journalist referencing a different player in connection with Le Havre demonstrates how wider media narratives can intersect with ongoing legal matters involving prominent athletes. The evolving storyline raises questions about balancing political expression by athletes with potential professional consequences when moving between international leagues. Observers across North America and Europe watch closely how fame, influence, and accountability unfold on the global stage. This ongoing coverage reflects how public figures navigate attention and responsibility in our tightly connected world. AFP is cited as the source that helped shape the framing of these developments.