Mbappé gives €60,300, French team security chief under investigation

While the football world celebrates France’s third‑place finish against England in Miami on July 18, 2026, the security chief of the Bleus, Mohamed Sanhadji, finds himself in police custody and charged for a donation of €60,300 from Kylian Mbappé.

Security chief’s profile and origin of the investigation

Mohamed Sanhadji, a former police officer, has been attached to the Bleus since 2004 as a liaison and security officer. He was taken into police custody at the beginning of the week and placed under judicial supervision. The investigation, opened in 2023, concerns a donation of €60,300 received from Kylian Mbappé.

Mbappé’s donation and multiple accusations

Player Kylian Mbappé (Mbappe) said he wanted to thank the staff for the 2022 World Cup by giving €60,300 to Sanhadji. Authorities, however, considered other possible motives, leading to the opening of a thorough investigation. According to Le Parisien, Sanhadji is now charged with receipt of misappropriated public funds, active corruption, several forms of influence peddling, fraud, money laundering and tax fraud.

As a result, Sanhadji is no longer permitted to take part in gatherings of the French national team. He can no longer contact the Bleus’ staff, current players, former players, or anyone associated with the French Football Federation.

On the same day, the World Cup third‑place match saw France face England in Miami Gardens, Fla., Saturday, July 18, 2026. Kylian Mbappé (10) reacted strongly during the game, as shown in the photo signed by Rebecca Blackwell for the Associated Press. The photo caption reads “Sports Football” as the section.

This contrast between the celebration of a sporting achievement and the charging of a security official highlights the duality that can coexist in French football. The case remains under judicial control and the outcomes are yet to be determined.