Charged with corruption, France's security officer sidelined from Zidane era

Mohamed Sanhadji, security officer for the France national team, was charged last week with receiving stolen public funds, influence peddling and corruption, forcing the French Football Federation to sideline him in the opening weeks of Zinédine Zidane’s tenure.

The new head coach had wanted to keep Sanhadji in his role. A discreet but familiar figure within the France squad, he was highly regarded by players and staff for his experience and knowledge of the demands involved in securing international travel.

The judicial authorities have imposed several strict prohibitions on him: he can no longer contact current or former members of the national team, nor can he enter Clairefontaine, the Stade de France or the Parc des Princes. His legal team denounces the situation as “inhuman”, according to L’Équipe’s information, deeming these measures particularly severe.

The FFF must now ensure continuity of his duties — securing travel, coordinating with local authorities, protecting the squad — pending a permanent appointment. Laurent George is currently serving as interim replacement.

This case represents the first institutional test of the Zidane era, whose appointment was already being closely scrutinized after several months of negotiations to succeed Didier Deschamps.