Benzema absent as trial begins over sex tape blackmail
The trial of Real Madrid FC striker, Karim Benzema, started in Versailles on Wednesday.
He is charged with attempted blackmail linked to a sex tape featuring his former France teammate, Mathieu Valbuena.
Benzema was not present in court. His lawyers cited his professional obligations.
He played with Real Madrid in the Champions League against Shakhtar Donetsk in Kyiv the previous night and faces a Spanish League Clasico against Barcelona on Sunday.
The 33-year-old Benzema is accused of being complicit in the attempt to blackmail Valbuena, who was threatened in a phone call in June 2015 with the publication of the video.
Benzema was allegedly involved in “aiding and abetting an extortion attempt.”
He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of 75,000 euros ($88,000), according to prosecutors.
Four other men said to be involved in the affair are also charged at the trial expected to last until Friday.
Due to the involvement in the affair, Benzema missed the 2016 European Championship in France, their World Cup win in 2018 and only returned to the national team this summer.
The player’s defence has rejected the allegations and on Tuesday the L’Equipe sports daily again quoted his lawyers demanding he is cleared.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
States
Abia APC pardons erring members, close ranks ahead of 2027 governorship poll
Mr Chukwu urged members to remain committed to the APC’s objectives and programmes in Abia State.
Hot news Home top
Chairman pledges intervention as flood sacks Akwa Ibom LG residents
Mrs Akpan lamented that floodwater submerged her home.
States
Oyetola remains Osun APC political leader despite governorship loss, says forum
Mr Ajilore also urged members to recognise and respect those who consistently demonstrated commitment to the party.
States
Abia@35: Gov. Otti thanks residents for prayers, sacrifices
Mr Otti said the anniversary provided an opportunity for residents to acknowledge God’s role in the state’s journey and development.
NationWide
37 women trained in 12-week leadership, mentorship programme for national development
Mr Olukoyede urged the beneficiaries to lead with purpose, serve others and uphold integrity.
NationWide
Oyo govt hails Olabiyi-Agoro’s emergence as PENGASSAN president
Mr Olabiyi-Agoro succeeded Festus Osifo, who was president of the association for six years.
