France’s Image Rights Dispute: Mbappé, Cherki, and the FFF

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the French Football Federation (FFF) faces renewed scrutiny over its image rights policies, with stars like Kylian Mbappé and Rayan Cherki at the center of a growing tension. While the specifics of the latest controversy remain unverified, the situation echoes a similar clash from 2022, highlighting the ongoing challenges leagues and federations face in balancing commercial interests with player autonomy.

The 2022 Image Rights Conflict: A Precedent

Back in 2022, Kylian Mbappé sparked a major rift with the FFF when he refused to participate in a national team photo shoot with sponsors. His legal team argued that the federation’s image rights agreement failed to grant players control over how their likenesses were used. The dispute, which occurred ahead of the 2022 World Cup, underscored a broader issue: as athletes gain more agency in their personal brands, traditional image rights frameworks are increasingly seen as outdated.

The FFF’s handling of the situation drew criticism for its lack of modernization. Experts noted that players like Mbappé, who command massive global followings, are less willing to comply with rigid sponsorship obligations. “Players today are more conscious of the products they endorse,” one analyst remarked. “This conflict may just be the first of many.”

2026 World Cup: A New Flashpoint?

Recent reports suggest that similar tensions are resurfacing ahead of the 2026 World Cup. French media outlets, including Foot Mercato and Le Soir, have cited “tense discussions” between the FFF and key players over the use of their images in promotional campaigns. While no official