Which is better for the one who is not close to the imam: the right side or the left side?

The questioner:
Honorable Shaykh, the questioner says: If a person cannot be close to the imam, meaning behind him in the prayer, is it better for him to pray on the right side of the row or on the left side?

The Shaykh:
The one closer to the imam. If the right side is closer, then he should be in the closer position, even if it is on the right. If the left side is closer, then this means that if it is on the right, it combines two virtues: closeness to the imam and being on the imam's right. As for when the left side is closer to the imam, it is better than the right, because the virtue of closeness to the imam is better than being on the right side of the row.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you. It has ended.

The Shaykh:
And Allah the Exalted knows best, and may Allah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad, and upon his family and his Companions.