The crisis is intensifying. Badr Bannun appeals to the judicial system

Raja Athletic Club defender Badr Bannoun issued a clarification via his official Instagram account in response to the huge controversy following the derby match against Wydad Casablanca, in which his comments sparked a wave of anger among Olympique Safi fans.

The roots of the crisis go back to the end of the “derby” match, which in the 20th round of the Moroccan league, Raja lost to Waidad with a clear goal.

Bannon got into a verbal spat with Wydad player Lamerat, during which he was accused of belittling the status of Olympique Safi, saying:

The announcement sparked angry reactions, prompting the management of Olympique Safi to issue a strongly worded official statement condemning the “immoral conduct” and calling on the National Football League to launch an urgent investigation and take strict disciplinary action. The club also threatened to appeal to the court system in defense of its reputation and dignity.

Bannon, for his part, denied that he had deliberately insulted or disparaged the Misfioui club, explaining that his conversation with Wydad’s Abdel Ghafoor Lamirat had been “taken out of context” and that it was merely a reminder of an old incident that took place when Lamirat was a player at Olympique Safi.

The former international defender confirmed his full respect for the city of Safi, its fans and the ancient history of the team, apologizing to anyone who felt offended or misunderstood his statements.

Banon emphasized that his relations with all Moroccan clubs are based on mutual respect and sportsmanship, noting that he will not accept to go beyond sporting criticism to personal insults.

He also announced that he is going to court against some pages that, according to him, defamed his family and published their photos, considering that what happened “crossed a red line that cannot be tolerated.”