Redouane Messaoud Dris, the Algerian judoka that opts out of facing Israeli
SportsIn
July 29, 2024

The spirit of fair competition suffered a setback at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games when Algerian judoka Redouane Messaoud Dris was disqualified for failing the weigh-in ahead of his match against Israeli opponent Tohar Butbul. Dris, aged 22, was scheduled to compete in the -73kg category but was found to be over the weight limit, leading to his removal from the draw. Consequently, Butbul advanced to the next round by walkover.

While the Algerian judo federation and national Olympic committee remain silent on the matter, the Israeli Olympic Committee has not held back, accusing Dris of intentionally failing to meet the weigh-in requirements. “Tohar’s competitor has removed himself from the competition,” read their statement. “The Israeli delegation will continue to compete with the Olympic values in mind. We believe this kind of behavior has no place in the world of sport.”

This incident echoes a troubling precedent set at the Tokyo Games in 2021, where another Algerian judoka, Fethi Nourine, was banned for 10 years by the International Judo Federation for withdrawing from a match against Butbul. These actions undermine the principles of sportsmanship and fair play that the Olympics stand for.

Latest News