Prefer Jewish News on Google
Israeli footballer questioned by police over sex abuse video
Beitar Jerusalem striker Antony Varrene detained along with other men who were filmed performing sexual acts on an 'unconscious' woman
An Israeli footballer has been questioned by police after being caught on film carrying out a serious of sex acts on a seemingly unconscious woman.
Antony Varenne, who plays for top-flight side Beitar Jerusalem, was filmed alongside three other men – two of whom are also footballers – sexually abusing the woman.
Telling teammates he was “embarrassed and sorry” after the footage emerged, police detained and questioned the men on Wednesday, after an official complaint was made by MK Merav Michaeli on Sunday.
The video was shot several years ago when Varenne was at a different club. After the footage emerged last week and was spread on social media, the 27-year-old French-born striker told Mako News: “I’ve stumbled. It happened only once and will never happen again. I will have to live with the shame and insult all my life. Those who know me know this is out of character.”
Varrene’s lawyer, Haim Abergel, claimed on Tuesday to have footage and text messages which proved the acts had been consensual.
Meanwhile, Beitar Nordia, who are based in Jerusalem and play in the third tier of Israeli football, has said it is suspending its player Michael Ross, who appeared in the video, until the conclusion of the police investigation.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
