France Drop Benzema for Euro 2016 Over Sex-Tape Blackmail Case

The French Football Federation (FFF) has announced that Karim Benzema will not join the France squad for Euro 2016.

This is in connection with the ongoing investigation and possible prosecution over his role in the Mathieu Valbuena sex-tape blackmail case.

The 28-year-old striker was suspended indefinitely from the national team (Les Blues) following charges of conspiracy to blackmail and alleged extortion from his international teammate Valbuena, whose sex-tape fell in the wrong hands.

The confirmation was made by the Real Madrid striker who wrote on his Twitter handle (@Benzema): “Unfortunately for me and for all those who have always supported me… I will not be selected for our Euro in France.”

France national team coach Didier Deschamps and French Football Federation (FFF) president Noël Le Graët met to discuss the striker’s future on Wednesday, but there was speculation his ban would be lifted after the investigating judge lifted a legal restriction that prevented him from having any contact with Valbuena.

Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud will be expected to lead the line in Benzema’s absence at the championship.