Track Wars: Benabbad vs. Baala
- By Mario Fraioli
- Published Jul. 25, 2011
- Updated Mar. 15, 2012 at 5:10 PM UTC
Track Wars: Benabbad vs. Baala
Baala said after the incident: "When you feel threatened, you do what there is to do. It's pathetic to see things like that. People like that don't have their place in sport. But saying that, it's very rare to see assholes like him."
Track Wars: Benabbad vs. Baala
French middle-distance runners Mehdi Baala and Mahiedine Mekhissi Benabbad were suspended from future competitions following a fisticuffs after a 1,500-meter race in Monaco on Friday. Photo: PhotoRun.net
Track Wars: Benabbad vs. Baala
Baala (right) said after the incident: "I want to apologize to everyone as we are athletes and should lead by example. But sometimes there are reactions which are out of character." Photo: PhotoRun.net
Track Wars: Benabbad vs. Baala
The duo had finished 9th and 11th in a loaded race won by Kenyan Silas Kiplagat. After crossing the finish line Benabbad lashed out at his countryman and the two exchanged punches and headbutts much to the shock of the crowd. Photo: PhotoRun.net
Track Wars: Benabbad vs. Baala
It was reported after the incident that Baala and Mekhissi did not receive their appearance fees and could face further sanctions from the IAAF. Photo: PhotoRun.net
FILED UNDER: Photos TAGS: fist fight / Mehdi Baala / Mekhissi Benabbad / Monaco / Photo Gallery / Photos
Mario Fraioli
Mario Fraioli is a senior editor at Competitor magazine. A cross-country All-American at Stonehill College in 2003, he now coaches the Prado Women's Racing Team in San Diego and was the men's marathon coach for Costa Rica's 2012 Olympic team. His first book, The Official Rock 'n' Roll Guide To Marathon & Half-Marathon Training (VeloPress, 2013) is available in bookstores, running shops and online.
