Queens Park Rangers midfielder Ilais Chair has spoken publicly for the first time about a violent incident that led to him receiving a criminal conviction and a prison sentence.
The Incident That Changed Everything
The Moroccan international described the events of summer 2020 as "the darkest day of my life" after an argument during a family holiday in Belgium's Ardennes Forest turned violent.
According to court documents, the altercation began when Chair, then aged 22, was returning from a kayaking trip with family and friends. A dispute erupted with another group over who would board the bus home first.
During the ensuing fight, Chair's mother was knocked to the ground. The public prosecutor's office reported there was "hitting, scratching, and biting" during the confrontation.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
The situation escalated dramatically when Chair struck a man identified as Niels T with a rock, leaving the victim with a 2cm skull fracture.
Chair claimed he only became aware of criminal proceedings against him in January 2024, having believed the matter was being handled as a civil case. His request for a fresh hearing was denied by the court.
In the initial ruling, the QPR star received a sentence of two years in prison, with twelve months suspended. He was also ordered to pay the victim €15,000 (approximately £12,800) in compensation. Chair's cousin, Jaber, received a six-month prison sentence for his involvement.
Reduced Sentence and Emotional Apology
After speaking directly with the judge about the circumstances, Chair saw his conviction reduced from a criminal offence to a misdemeanour.
His punishment was changed to 150 hours of community service and a €1,600 (£1,400) fine.
Reflecting on the incident, Chair told The Athletic: "You automatically go into the worst-case scenario - everything I've worked for, everything I've done for myself, for my family, could be gone. It still makes me emotional thinking about it now."
He explained his actions by saying: "I simply saw my mother on the floor in a vulnerable and scary position and I reacted. It all happened so fast in response to what was happening. Despite this, it never should have happened."
The footballer revealed he had written a letter of apology to the victim and his family, stating: "I said I wish them nothing but the best in life."
Chair expressed gratitude that the judge appreciated the human element of the case, while maintaining that his reaction, though natural under the circumstances, was unjustifiable.
