The Olympic medallists Mehdi Baala and Mahiedine Mekhissi Benabbad have been provisionally suspended by the French Athletics Federation after coming to blows at Friday night's Diamond League meeting in Monaco. The long-time bitter rivals, who have forfeited their appearance money, will attend a disciplinary hearing next week after what an FFA statement described as their "unspeakable behaviour" and may face further sanction from the International Association of Athletics Federations.
After both had finished the 1500 metres, Baala appeared to headbutt his fellow Frenchman, sparking a fight which was only halted by the intervention of officials.
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An apologetic Baala, who finished ninth, two places ahead of Mekhissi, said: "I went to comfort him after the race as he looked to be in trouble. But he said 'If I don't say hello, I have my reasons' and put his forehead against mine."
The FFA statement read: "Following the unspeakable behaviour of Mehdi Baala and Mahiedine Mekhissi Benabbad, Bernard Amsalem, president of the FFA, decided today to call an emergency disciplinary commission of the Federation in order to shed light on this incident and take appropriate action. The federal office, in accordance with the bylaws, has decided to provisionally suspended the two athletes."
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