The case of Algerian judoka, Massoud Redouane Driss, has dominated the attention of Algerians, overshadowing the performance of other athletes from the country participating in the Olympics held in Paris, France. This focus intensified after the International Judo Federation decided to investigate whether the Algerian athlete had deliberately exceeded the weight limit to avoid facing Israeli judoka Tohar Butbul.
Discussion among Algerians, particularly on social media, has been largely centered on Driss's case since he was drawn to compete against Butbul, but was disqualified due to being overweight. The International Judo Federation officially announced on Sunday that it would conduct an investigation into Driss's exclusion from the Paris 2024 Olympics, stating in a press release that "Driss, in the under 73 kg category, was disqualified following an official weight test due to weighing over the limit." It noted that he arrived at the weigh-in session 10 minutes before the deadline and was found to be 400 grams over the maximum allowed weight for competition.
The federation expressed doubts about Driss's intentions, emphasizing its commitment to the principles of fair play and the Olympic spirit while denouncing discrimination. The statement added, "It is unfortunate that athletes often become victims of broader political disputes that contradict the values of sport... Beyond the impacts of international conflicts, we believe that sport should remain a realm of integrity and fairness."
The statement concluded by reaffirming, "We cannot justify Massoud Driss's case of being overweight, but we remain committed to ensuring that all athletes compete under equal and fair conditions," indicating that a complete review and investigation would take place after the Olympics, with further actions to be considered if necessary.
Algerians have a history of withdrawing from competitions against Israeli athletes as a form of protest against recognizing Israel as a state. Driss's compatriot, Algerian judo champion Fethi Nourine, was banned for 10 years after refusing to face an Israeli competitor at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, leading him to decide to retire permanently.
Massoud Redouane Driss's situation has sparked varied reactions on social media in Algeria. Although the athlete has not publicly stated whether he intentionally weighed over, many believe he has taken a political stance: "Driss's message is clear and has a significant impact; I commend his courage and sacrifice to his athletic career for his cause." Another commented: "The International Federation claims to oppose the politicization of sports, but this usually applies only to issues defined by the West." Others argued that withdrawal does not necessarily benefit the Palestinian cause: "Who says that withdrawal is the best stance to serve the cause? Why not face the Israeli and defeat him in the ring?"
