In France, a particular case has emerged in the past few hours involving Paris Saint-Germain and the former director of France Football, the French magazine responsible for organizing the Ballon d'Or, Pascal Ferré.
The discussions revolve around special relationships characterised by unusual pressures and gifts from the Parisian club to the journalist, aimed at pushing for Lionel Messi's Ballon d'Or victory in 2021.
As revealed by Le Monde, a judicial investigation has been underway since November to clarify the connections between the Parisian club and Ferré, who allegedly played a significant role in Messi's seventh Ballon d'Or win.
Interestingly, Ferré voted for Robert Lewandowski as the winner that year, but according to French media, the French club's persuasive efforts towards the director of France Football were extensive, involving several other journalists.
Among the gifts received were numerous VIP box invitations at Parc des Princes, as well as a series of free trips to Qatar, which raised red flags within the French law enforcement agencies.
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