The trial of Papacito, an extreme-right influencer, began in Paris on February 26, 2026, as he faces allegations of cyberbullying Imane Khelif, a prominent Algerian boxer who became an Olympic champion during the 2024 Paris Games. Khelif, who won the gold medal in the women's under-66 kg category, has been the subject of intense online harassment and misinformation since her rise to fame, spurred partly by public backlash related to her gender. This situation has prompted Khelif to take legal action against Papacito, whose actions reportedly amplified the hate campaign against her.

The timing of the trial coincides with the aftermath of the 2024 Olympics, where Khelif's triumph transcended sports, highlighted by her confrontations against local and social media narratives challenging her legitimacy as an athlete due to her gender. The scrutiny she faced is symptomatic of broader societal issues regarding the treatment of women in sports, particularly those who break stereotypes and challenge norms. Khelif's story is emblematic of the challenges female athletes encounter, navigating not only the rigors of competition but also societal expectations and biases that often find expression online.

As the legal proceedings unfold, they serve as a critical examination of the legal protections against cyberbullying and online harassment in France. Khelif's case could set a significant precedent for similar cases in the future, particularly in the context of gender-based harassment. Khelif's courage to stand against cyberbullying resonates with many, highlighting the need for more robust measures to protect individuals, especially women, from online abuse and to foster a safe environment for all athletes. The implications of this trial extend beyond Khelif, potentially influencing how society addresses online hate and harassment in the digital age.