This is a major turn of events for the former AS Monaco captain. On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Aix-en-Provence Court of Appeal dismissed the case against Wissam Ben Yedder, overturning his referral to a criminal court for rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault.

A case with "insufficient evidence"

Initially charged in November 2025 following complaints from two young women he met at a party in 2023, the footballer has now seen the court overturn this decision.

1. The reason: The court considered that there was no reason to prosecute the athlete, citing a lack of tangible evidence.
2. The reaction: "My client has consistently proclaimed his innocence," his lawyer, Sophia Kerbaa, stated, expressing her satisfaction with the verdict. His brother, Sabri, initially facing the same charges, also benefits from this decision.

A career marked by legal troubles

Despite this legal victory, the striker's career remains marred by multiple convictions in recent years:

1. Domestic violence: Sentenced in September 2025 to a fine of 90,000 euros for psychological violence against his wife.
2. Sexual assault: Sentenced at the end of 2024 to two years in prison with a suspended sentence for acts committed under the influence of alcohol (a decision which he has appealed).
3. Tax fraud: Already convicted in the past for his years spent at FC Sevilla.

A sporting exile at Wydad Casablanca

On the sporting front, Ben Yedder is trying to close a chaotic chapter. After brief stints in Iran (Sepahan SC) and Turkey (Sakaryaspor), the 35-year-old joined Wydad Casablanca in early January 2026. This six-month contract in Morocco represents one of his last chances to revive his career on the pitch.

World football under legal pressure

The Ben Yedder affair comes amid a particularly tense atmosphere for international football. Just last Tuesday, Achraf Hakimi (PSG) was referred to French courts for rape. Meanwhile, former Arsenal player Thomas Partey is due to appear before Westminster Magistrates' Court on March 13 to answer similar new accusations.