French prosecutors seek trial for four in Qatar World Cup corruption case

The French National Financial Prosecutor's Office (PNF) has requested that four individuals face trial as part of an investigation into the awarding of the 2022 FIFA World Cup to Qatar. The case, often referred to as ‘Qatargate’, focuses on alleged corruption and maneuvers occurring prior to the December 2010 vote.

Among those targeted for trial are Reynald Temarii, a former FIFA vice president and former president of the Oceania Football Confederation, and Qatari billionaire Mohamed Bin Hammam. The prosecution is seeking charges of ‘passive private corruption’ against Temarii and ‘active private corruption’ against Bin Hammam.

Investigators suspect that Bin Hammam provided funds to cover Temarii’s legal defense costs following a FIFA ethics suspension. This financial arrangement is being scrutinized for its potential to have influenced the voting process, specifically regarding how Temarii’s legal appeals may have impacted the eligibility of substitute voters who might have supported rival bids from Australia or the United States.

Two additional individuals, consultant Jean-Charles Brisard and Géraldine Lesieur, are also included in the request to face trial for alleged fraud and concealment.