Algerian defender Youcef Atal convicted of provoking racial hatred, bags eight-month suspended prison sentence

Youcef Atal has been found guilty of provoking racial hatred and received eight-month suspended prison sentence along with €45,000 fine.

The 27-year-old Algerian international was implicated after sharing a video on Instagram from Palestinian preacher Mahmoud al-Hasanat, who prayed for a “dark day” for Jewish people.

Although Atal quickly deleted the post, it drew criticism, including from Nice’s mayor, Christian Estrosi, who stated that Atal would not be welcome at OGC Nice unless he denounced Hamas terrorists.

Following the incident, Atal was suspended by both the France FA and his club, OGC Nice, and has not played since then.

Speculation suggests that he may have already played his last game for the club, with interest reportedly coming from Turkish clubs.

During the December hearing, the Nice Public Prosecutor sought a 10-month suspended prison sentence, but the tribunal decided on an eight-month suspended sentence.

As part of the verdict, Atal is also required to cover the costs of publishing the verdict in Nice-Matin and Le Monde.

Atal, currently on international duty with Algeria for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has ten days to appeal the decision.