Belaïli’s Fate on Hold: Tunisian League Postpones Verdict on Controversial Gesture

Tunisian league authorities have postponed their disciplinary verdict on Algerian star Youcef Belaïli until Apr 11, following his controversial gesture during league match against JS Omrane last month.

The Ethics and Disciplinary Committee of the Tunisian Professional League held hearing for the Espérance de Tunis forward this Friday but chose to delay the final decision after internal vote among committee members.

According to leaked league document obtained, the committee stated:

“The case of player Mohamed Youcef Belaïli has been reserved for decision to be announced during the session scheduled for Friday, 11 Apr 2025”

Internal Division Over Blayli's Sanction

Sources close to the league revealed that Belaïli defended his actions during the hearing but members were deeply divided on the appropriate sanction.

• Some voted for 2 match suspension and 5,000 TND fine ($1700).
• While others favored dropping all charges and clearing the player of misconduct.

Insiders also suggest the delay was partly motivated by Espérance’s crucial CAF champions league quarter final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns on April 8.

The official ruling is now expected just days ahead of the heated Tunis Derby against Club Africain on April 18 a potential title decider with only 1 point separating the top 3 teams.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.