Mohamed Sanhadji, the long-serving head of logistics and security for the France national football team, has been placed under formal investigation for corruption, according to the Paris prosecutor’s office.
The Investigation and Paris Prosecutor Details
According to statements released by the Paris prosecutor’s office, Sanhadji was formally placed under investigation on Wednesday, September 17. The charges include the corruption of a person holding public authority.
Investigators note that the payment was intended to reward Sanhadji personally for his work during the tournament. The transfer occurred shortly before Mbappé undertook a public trip to Cameroon, during which the player met political figures and participated in a charity match. Sanhadji had coordinated the security for that visit alongside the French embassy.
Strict Judicial Controls Imposed on Sanhadji
As reported by Le Monde and corroborated by L’Equipe, the judicial oversight imposed on Sanhadji includes a strict ban on any contact with current or past members of national selections, the current France national team staff, past and present managers, and current or former officials and personnel of the French Football Federation (FFF). The restrictions also extend to leadership figures from the Central Directorate of the Republican Security Companies (DCCRS) dating back to 2011.
Furthermore, Sanhadji is prohibited from visiting the FFF headquarters, the Clairefontaine training center, the Stade de France, and the Parc des Princes without explicit authorization from a magistrate. The court also ordered a bond and barred the former police commander from working in the national police force or engaging in any professional activity within professional sports, including roles compensated by French or foreign clubs and national federations.
Career Fallout and Federation Stance
Sanhadji served as the designated police officer responsible for the security of the France squad from 2004 until December 2025. Following the 2023 gift, which he failed to report to his hierarchy within the police force, he was subjected to disciplinary sanctions and took early retirement from the national police. Affectionately known as “Momo” within the inner circle of the national team, Sanhadji remained highly valued by the players and the federation leadership. Following his exit from law enforcement, the FFF directly recruited him to continue his security duties, including preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
The legal developments unfold as the national team transitions under incoming leadership.
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