Dimitri Payet faces trial in Brazil

Former French international midfielder Dimitri Payet is on trial in Brazil after a woman filed a complaint accusing him of psychological abuse during a romantic relationship when he played for Vasco da Gama. A Rio de Janeiro judge accepted the complaint filed by Brazilian lawyer Larissa Ferrari on July 25, accusing the player of causing serious psychological and emotional harm. The case began last April, when the plaintiff filed a comprehensive complaint of what she described as "physical and psychological violence," stating that she had been assaulted by the player, leaving her with physical and psychological scars. In her testimony, she described being subjected to "physical, moral, psychological, and sexual violence," according to a police report dated March 29. According to her account, the relationship between the two began in August of last year via Instagram and quickly developed into a romantic relationship, even though the player was married. She reported that she began receiving threats in December, and that Payet had been engaging in violent behavior toward her, including pushing and stomping on her. The 28-year-old woman claimed she suffers from borderline personality disorder and requested police protection. The French player admitted to an extramarital affair but denied all allegations of violence. It is worth noting that the Brazilian Public Prosecutor's Office officially filed an indictment against the player on June 20, shortly after he mutually terminated his contract with Vasco da Gama. Payet joined the Brazilian club in the summer of 2023, making 77 appearances, scoring 8 goals and providing 16 assists. The prosecution is currently seeking to hold the player fully responsible, including for the costs of psychological and medical care the complainant requires as a result of what she experienced during their relationship.