French Judge Clears Book That Referred to Franck Ribery as 'Scum' and 'Scarface'

A controversial book that referred to French footballer Franck Ribery as "scum," "scarface" and "gangster" has been cleared by a Paris court, according to the Guardian.

Daniel Riolo's 2013 book Racaille Football Club (Scum Football Club) took aim at the Bayern Munich midfielder's role in discontent within the French squad at the 2010 World Cup, where the team were sent packing early after failing to advance from their group.

In 2009, Ribery and Real Madrid's Karim Benzema were accused of having sex with an underage prostitute, an incident that overshadowed France's preparations for the tournament in South Africa. The pair were eventually cleared of any wrongdoing, however.

Ribery sued Riolo—an RMC Sport journalist—and publisher Hugo & Cie for damages, but his claim was rejected this week on the grounds that the words were used "objectively," and he was ordered to pay €5,000.

The 32-year-old, who is currently injured, is expected to appeal the judge's decision.

[Guardian]