RMC's football expert commentator Daniel Riolo won his defamation lawsuit brought by Didier DeschampsThis affair followed statements made by Daniel Riolo on the airwaves of RMC regarding the package Karim Benzema during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The Paris Criminal Court ruled that his remarks, although harsh, fell within the scope of journalistic freedom of expression and did not constitute defamation in the criminal sense.
An accusation centered on Benzema's withdrawal
It all started when Daniel Riolo called Didier Deschamps a " liar " Following the coach's statement regarding Karim Benzema's health, which the journalist claimed was false, the striker's premature departure from the French national team became the subject of much discussion. Deschamps then took legal action, arguing that the remarks had damaged his honor and reputation.
The hearing took place before the 17th chamber of the Paris Criminal Court, which specializes in press cases. It allowed both parties to present their arguments: Didier Deschamps sought compensation for the moral damage suffered, while Daniel Riolo defended his role as a journalist and his freedom of expression within the context of a public debate on a sensitive subject in French football.
The court's decision in favor of the journalist
The court acquitted Daniel Riolo, finding that his remarks, even though direct and accusatory, fell within the legitimate scope of journalistic practice. The court also ordered Deschamps to pay a small sum in legal costs.
