Paris Saint-Germain have been accused of lobbying the Ballon d'Or's organisers in order to secure a victory for Lionel Messi.
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- Investigation into PSG officials lobbying organisers
- Tried to lobby for Messi to win while at PSG player
- Messi won eighth Ballon d'Or in 2023
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WHAT HAPPENED?
According to a report in officials at PSG attempted to influence Pascal Ferre, the former editor-in-chief of France Footballand organiser of the Ballon d'Or. It is alleged that officials at the Parisian club sought to gain support from Ferre through various favours. The report states that the club were hoping Messi would win the trophy during his time in the French capital.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
According to , the investigation primarily focused on former director of communications, Jean-Martial Ribes. A report by the General Inspectorate of the National Police from November 2023 says: "Ribes requested to obtain tickets for PSG football matches by journalists, politicians, elected officials, members of ministerial cabinets or the presidency, artists."
If PSG did attempt to gain favour from Ballon d'Or officials, they were unsuccessful – Messi did not win the coveted trophy in his time at the club.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Messi became the first player from MLS to win the Ballon d'Or when he was awarded the trophy for his standout 2022-23 season, during which he inspired Argentina's World Cup win in Qatar. Messi joined Inter Miami from PSG in the summer of 2023.
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WHAT NEXT FOR PSG?
The investigation is still ongoing. As for PSG, the club return to action tomorrow in the French Cup round of 64 on Sunday.
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