Watan – In a development that underscores the intricate interplay of global sports and diplomacy, France’s judiciary is meticulously examining the role of Qatari magnate Mohammed bin Hammam in the awarding of the 2022 FIFA World Cup to Qatar. “Le Monde,” a leading French publication, has provided a comprehensive account of the ongoing investigation, painting a detailed picture of the legal intricacies involved.
Top French judges, Serge Tournaire and Virginie Tilmont, are leading this investigation, digging into the behind-the-scenes actions that made Qatar the World Cup host. Their detailed probe resulted in an international arrest warrant for bin Hammam on June 22nd, pointing to worries about “corruption and shady dealings” in the World Cup’s pick.
Bin Hammam, staying put in Qatar during this legal drama, hasn’t yet answered the multiple calls from the French courts. Interestingly, even though FIFA banned him for life in 2012 over a “conflict of interests,” many sports insiders think he was key in getting the World Cup for Qatar.
Emerging details from the investigation hint at bin Hammam’s potential efforts to divert votes from Qatar’s competitors. Additionally, there are indications of his possible financial involvement with Reynald Temarii, the former president of the Oceania Football Confederation, just ahead of the critical voting session.
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