French prosecutors seek trial of ex-Asian football chief over Qatar World Cup vote

French prosecutors have called for former Asian Football Confederation president Mohamed Bin Hammam to stand trial in connection with voting practices surrounding Qatar's selection as host nation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Bin Hammam is one of four people identified by the prosecutor's office as subjects of the investigation into potential irregularities linked to the tournament award process. The investigation has focused on how votes were cast and influenced during the FIFA decision-making period that ultimately resulted in Qatar becoming the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup.

The case represents part of broader scrutiny applied to the Qatar World Cup hosting decision, which faced international criticism over concerns ranging from the bidding process to working conditions and human rights standards. Bin Hammam's role as head of Asian football governance during the critical voting period has placed him under particular focus.

As a prominent figure in Asian football administration, Bin Hammam's position gave him significant influence over how member nations from the continent cast their votes. The prosecutor's office determination to pursue trial proceedings against him signals sustained efforts by French authorities to examine the decision-making mechanisms that led to Qatar's selection as World Cup host.