Qatar defends Al-Khelaifi, threatens to pull out of PSG project

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Reports from France have pointed to a supposed accusation against Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi, accusing him of being complicit in an abuse of power in the Arnaud Lagardere case. This news has caused significant outrage in Doha, with the Qatari investment fund allegedly threatening to withdraw its financial support from both PSG and BeIN Sports due to what they consider to be unfounded persecutions.

9 hours ago
It was a turbulent Thursday in the French capital, with an initial report from AFP accusing Al-Khelaifi of being involved in vote-buying and the violation of voting freedom, as well as allegedly being complicit in an abuse of power in a possible 2018 attempt by Arnaud Lagardere to sway a key vote in the Qatari fund's favour.
Al-Khelaifi's name is central in the matter as the legal authorities are examining whether he might have used his influence for personal gain. A source close to Al-Khelaifi's circle denied the accusations, stating: "It has nothing to do with him, but, as usual, he will be dragged into a process because of his famous name until it all quietly disappears due to lack of evidence."
The PSG president's entourage expressed surprise at seeing his name linked to such a procedure. The surprise and anger in Qatar have been palpable, with the country once again being dragged into a judicial process that could have serious consequences.
According to RMC Sports in France, the Qatari fund is fed up with attempts to manipulate and tarnish the image of anything connected to Qatar, and is seriously considering breaking ties.
Doha is now contemplating "very seriously" pulling its most significant investments from France. This includes its stake in PSG, the cornerstone of its sporting projects, as well as its involvement with BeIN Sports, where it has played a key role in promoting national football.

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