French authorities have reportedly initiated an investigation into payments made by Kylian Mbappe, the 'Real Madrid star' to police officers, raising concerns about whether these funds were intended for World Cup-related duties or for personal security.
As reported by Le Canard Enchaine via Sport, a total of £156,330 (€180,300) was disbursed in June 2023 to five officers tasked with protecting the French national team, with four officers receiving £26,011 (€30,000) each and a fifth officer receiving £52,278 (€60,300).
These payments are thought to be connected to Mbappe's commitment to donate his 2022 World Cup prize money to the security personnel who supported the team during the tournament, a promise he formalized in a document after consulting his lawyer to ensure the donations would not be taxable for the recipients.
However, the investigation is scrutinizing whether the payments were genuinely for World Cup duties or if they were meant for Mbappe's personal protection, particularly focusing on one officer who accompanied him on trips to Cameroon and Vaucluse in June 2023.
Also , while Mbappe was in Paris for a European qualifier against Greece, this officer was in Vaucluse, prompting questions about the legitimacy of his assignment.
Authorities suspect that the officer may have violated his duty of integrity by participating in these trips.
In response to the unfolding situation, Mbappe has expressed his willingness to answer any inquiries.