German club pays footballer $1.6m after unfair dismissal for speaking on Gaza

Anwar El Ghazi has announced that he received a payout from Mainz after a German court ruled he was unfairly dismissed by the club over a social media post concerning Israel's war on Gaza.
The 29-year-old footballer received $1.68m in salary and bonuses from Mainz, with an additional $223,000 still owed in bonuses. Mainz had until midnight on 30 July to pay him in full to retain his services.
El Ghazi, who recently joined Cardiff City as a free agent following the court ruling, confirmed that he received the payment and will donate $560,000 to support children in Gaza.
In a statement, El Ghazi said, "My legal battle with Mainz has never been about the money for me."
He added, "I want to thank Mainz for two things. Firstly, for the substantial payoff, 500k of which will help fund projects for children in Gaza. Despite their attempts to avoid payment, they have contributed to making life a little more bearable for Gaza's children through me."
"Secondly, for trying to silence me, which only made my voice louder for the oppressed and voiceless in Gaza."
— Anwar El Ghazi (@elghazi1995) August 23, 2024