Former West Ham star Dimitri Payet is facing trial in Brazil after prosecutors reopened a case involving serious allegations from his former mistress, Larissa Ferrari.

The Daily Star reports that the charges include psychological, emotional, and physical abuse during a months-long affair.

Shocking Claims Behind the Case

According to the report, Brazilian prosecutors formally charged Payet, aged thirty-eight, on June 17, accusing him of exploiting Ferrari’s vulnerability and subjecting her to degrading treatment over a seven-month relationship.

Ferrari, a 28-year-old lawyer, told police that Payet made her drink her own urine and toilet water, forced her to lick the floor, and manipulated her into filming degrading videos. She also claims he staged a fake wedding, giving her a ring to wear as proof of her love.

Prosecutors say the former midfielder caused lasting psychological damage through what they described as “attitudes, insulting and degrading expressions, in addition to humiliation, manipulation and ridicule.”

Legal Fallout and Responses

Payet denies the allegations. His lawyer, Sheila Lustoza, said she was “surprised” that the charges were revived but believes the court will “recognise my client’s innocence.” Payet reportedly told investigators that photos of Ferrari’s bruising were the result of consensual sex on hard wooden furniture.

Ferrari’s legal team welcomed the decision to bring the case to court. In a statement, they said: “This demonstrates that the authorities are attentive to the seriousness of the facts and willing to ensure that conduct harmful to the dignity of women does not go unpunished, regardless of the public projection of the accused.”

The prosecution is seeking a conviction, along with moral damages and full reimbursement of Ferrari’s psychological treatment costs. The trial is expected to take place later this year.

Payet’s Career and Contract Termination

Earlier this month, Payet’s contract with Vasco da Gama was terminated by mutual agreement. The Brazilian club thanked him for his professionalism and wished him well in future challenges.

The former France international made a name for himself in east London between 2015 and 2017, becoming a fan favourite during his time with the Hammers before forcing a return to Marseille. He joined Vasco in 2023, while his wife Ludivine and their four children remained in France.