Zinédine Zidane has retained full confidence in a former security official attached to the French national team, despite an ongoing judicial investigation and a recent disciplinary sanction, according to reports from sports and news outlets. The staff member, a former member of France’s Compagnies Républicaines de Sécurité (CRS), continues to manage security logistics for Les Bleus under the team’s new coaching setup.
Judicial Inquiry and Disciplinary Sanctions
The security official remains the target of a judicial inquiry stemming from a 60,000-euro check received from national team captain Kylian Mbappé in 2023, according to published reports. In addition to the legal scrutiny, the official faced internal disciplinary action late in 2025 that resulted in an enforced early retirement from active police service.
Despite these developments, Zinédine Zidane chose to keep the official within the national team’s security detail. The former CRS officer works alongside an active-duty police officer to oversee protection and logistics for the squad, preserving continuity within the staff despite the surrounding legal and administrative pressure.
Governance and Transparency Concerns
The decision to maintain the official’s role has drawn scrutiny regarding transparency and ethical standards within sports governing bodies. According to analysis from sports administration observers, the situation highlights ongoing challenges in managing potential conflicts of interest when public sector personnel are seconded to high-profile athletic organizations.
While the French Football Federation and national team management have not released extensive public statements regarding the operational review, the retention of the staff member underscores the complex relationship between external security detachments and sporting staffs.
Next Steps for the National Team
The staff arrangement remains in place as Les Bleus prepare for their upcoming international fixtures under Zinédine Zidane.