PARIS — An investigation has been launched into possible fraudulent payments made by French football star Kylian Mbappe to five police officers assigned to protect the national team, the public prosecutor’s office confirmed on Thursday.
The probe follows a tip-off from the French finance ministry’s anti-money laundering unit, which flagged “unusual financial transactions” involving the officers. Authorities are now examining whether any criminal offences have occurred.
“These investigations, which are by their very nature complex in the case of financial transactions, are underway,” the prosecutor’s office said.
According to French investigative newspaper Le Canard Enchaîné, the Real Madrid forward allegedly paid €180,300 (approximately $209,000) “under the table” for private security services linked to the French national team.
Mbappe’s representatives have denied any wrongdoing, insisting that all transactions were conducted legally. In a statement, they said the footballer has “always chosen to donate in full his bonuses” from international duty to charity and those involved in supporting the team, including security staff.
“It’s what he did after the 2022 World Cup, with complete transparency,” the statement read, maintaining that the funds went to recognised charitable organisations and team personnel.
The case remains under active investigation.
