Mohamed Sanhadji, the security chief for the French national football team, has been placed under judicial investigation for alleged corruption, embezzlement of public funds, and fraud. The investigation is connected to a case involving a donation from Kylian Mbappé, one of France’s most celebrated footballers. Sanhadji was placed under investigation on September 16, and the Paris prosecutor confirmed the details on Friday, September 18. As part of his judicial supervision, he is prohibited from contacting current and former members of the French national team, including players, coaches, and officials of the French Football Federation (FFF), as well as certain government and sports sector figures. Sanhadji is also banned from appearing at key locations associated with French football, such as the headquarters of the FFF, the Clairefontaine training center, the Stade de France, and the Parc des Princes, unless explicitly authorized by a judge. Additionally, he is barred from performing any police duties or engaging in professional activities within the sports sector, including any paid roles with French or foreign football clubs or federations. These restrictions are part of his judicial supervision, which aims to prevent any interference with ongoing investigations. Sanhadji had previously served as a police officer responsible for the security of the French national team from 2004 until December 2025. However, he was forced to retire early from the national police after receiving a donation of 60,300 euros from Kylian Mbappé following the 2022 World Cup, without informing his superiors. Despite this, he was directly hired by the FFF to accompany the team to the 2026 World Cup and remained in the team’s management, handling logistics and security. The donation came to light when a banker reported it to Tracfin, the French financial intelligence unit, in July 2024. This led to the opening of a judicial investigation into potential hidden work and money laundering. The formal investigation began in January 2026, and Sanhadji was placed under investigation on September 16 for a range of charges, including complicity in embezzlement of public funds, active and passive corruption, and influence trafficking. He is also facing charges of fraud and money laundering, as the case continues to unfold.