Nasser Al‑Khalifi, chairman of Qatar’s BN Media Group, is under a preliminary investigation in France over alleged conflict‑of‑interest in the 2024 French league broadcast‑rights talks. The probe follows a complaint from Paris Saint‑Germain.
Who is Nasser Al‑Khalifi and what is happening? Nasser Al‑Khalifi, chairman of Qatar’s BN Media Group, is under a preliminary investigation in France over alleged conflict‑of‑interest in the 2024 French league broadcast‑rights negotiations.
When and where did the probe start? The investigation began in September 2026 at a commercial court in Paris after Paris Saint‑Germain (PSG) filed an official complaint with French authorities.
Why is it controversial? Broadcast rights for Ligue 1 are among the most lucrative football deals, worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Investigators suspect that Al‑Khalifi, through BN Media, may have used his position to steer contracts toward entities linked to him personally or commercially, undermining transparency and fair competition.
Investigation details
- The focus is on the 2024 broadcast‑rights talks involving BN Media, Qatari broadcasters, and French TV networks.
- Preliminary documents reveal undisclosed communications between BN representatives and PSG officials regarding revenue sharing.
- French authorities will summon witnesses and request financial records to determine any illicit benefit.
What are the possible consequences? If charges are confirmed, Al‑Khalifi could face hefty fines, revocation of broadcasting licences, and a possible ban from future EU‑based contracts.
To date, neither BN Media nor the French Football Federation (FFF) has issued an official statement. The case remains pending until a final court ruling.
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