As discussed by Daniel Riolo on RMC’s After, Mohamed Bouhafsi is one of the names being considered to become the new president of OM (Olympique de Marseille). At 33 years old, the former RMC Sport editor, now a presenter on France Télévisions and executive of a branch of the audiovisual group Mediawan, has a wide network in the world of football and politics.
Since Pablo Longoria’s departure, OM has been searching for a new president. Alban Juster was appointed to interim until a new strong figure is found, as Medhi Benatia, the current sports director, is set to leave at the end of the season. Frank McCourt, the club’s owner, has initiated a recruitment process behind the scenes, as he mentioned in an interview published in the JDD on Saturday.
“My preference is for someone who knows France and Marseille well, as I believe it is crucial to understand the club’s culture,” stated the American leader. “The person must also be a seasoned, experienced manager. We have a clear understanding of how a club like Marseille should be run, with a strong president representing the owner. It is a fundamental position, and I hope we will announce the new president before the end of the season,” continued the businessman.
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Context: Mohamed Bouhafsi is being considered as a potential candidate for the presidency of the football club Olympique de Marseille (OM).
Fact Check: Pablo Longoria is currently the president of OM, not a departing one.
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Presented by Daniel Riolo on the After Foot on RMC, journalist Mohamed Bouhafsi is one of the profiles being evaluated by the OM owner to succeed Pablo Longoria. “The name most mentioned is Mohamed Bouhafsi,” said Daniel Riolo, who is close to him. “From a sports, political, or Marseille society perspective, he ticks all the boxes. His football contacts and networks are very important.”
Born on May 17, 1992, in Oran, Algeria, Mohamed Bouhafsi grew up in Saint-Denis, France, and obtained French citizenship in 2013. After completing his economics and social sciences baccalaureate, he studied at the European Institute of Journalism in Paris, while honing his skills in English, Spanish, and Italian. A dedicated listener of the RMC’s After Foot, Bouhafsi interned at RMC Sport in 2011, following stints at France Inter and Canal+. With a strong network in football, he stood out by breaking transfer news and securing interviews with important figures.
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Context: Mohamed Bouhafsi’s background and experience in journalism and football are highlighted as he emerges as a potential candidate for OM’s presidency.
Fact Check: Mohamed Bouhafsi has a diverse linguistic background, with proficiency in English, Spanish, and Italian.
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One year after joining the radio, he secured his first permanent position as a journalist. Reporting on major competitions like the World Cup and Euro championships, Bouhafsi was appointed editor-in-chief for football in the summer of 2016, at just 24. He later launched the program Breaking Foot and conducted interviews with football figures. In 2020, he transitioned to RMC’s 18h-21h slot with the show Top of the Foot, alongside prominent consultants.
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Context: Mohamed Bouhafsi’s journalistic career and achievements are highlighted, showing his versatility and expertise in the field.
Fact Check: Bouhafsi’s extensive coverage of football events like the World Cup and Euro championships is emphasized.
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In 2021, Bouhafsi interviewed Emmanuel Macron on RMC and BFMTV, building a strong rapport with the French President. He then moved to France Télévisions as a commentator and co-host for political shows in preparation for the 2022 presidential elections. Ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, he co-hosted the arrival of the Olympic flame in Marseille and presented festivities leading up to the games.
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Context: Mohamed Bouhafsi’s transition to political commentary and coverage of significant events such as the Paris Olympics are noted, demonstrating his versatility in media roles.
Fact Check: Bouhafsi’s high-profile interviews with Emmanuel Macron and involvement in major events like the Paris Olympics are highlighted.
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Currently serving as the general director of 3e Œil Productions and hosting C à vous on France 5, Bouhafsi is a vocal advocate against child abuse. His interest in the OM presidency has been met with excitement by those who know him, given his strong connection to Marseille’s sports, politics, and society.
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Context: Mohamed Bouhafsi’s social activism and career as a media executive are highlighted, along with his potential candidacy for the OM presidency.
Fact Check: Bouhafsi’s commitment to social causes, including fighting child abuse, is underscored.
