Football giant Franck Ribery named in Epstein files

# Sports Desk
Franck Ribery | File Photo: AFP
Franck Ribery | File Photo: AFP

Former Bayern Munich and France winger Franck Ribery has been mentioned in a recent document release by the United States Department of Justice connected to the long-running investigation into financier Jeffrey Epstein, according to reports by Idman.Biz. The disclosure is part of a massive release of investigative material running into millions of pages, which includes references to numerous public figures from entertainment, business, and politics. US authorities have emphasized that being named in these files does not imply guilt or criminal wrongdoing.

Ribery’s name appears on page 26 of one of the released documents. The material largely consists of unverified statements, allegations, and investigative records, much of which remains heavily redacted. The Department of Justice has clearly stated that inclusion in the documents should not be seen as an accusation or legal finding, and no charges have been brought against Ribery in relation to the Epstein investigation.

The scale of the disclosure is significant, reportedly containing over 2,000 videos and approximately 180,000 images. Legal experts note that such releases often include raw and untested claims gathered during investigations that never result in formal action or court proceedings.

Public attention around Ribery’s mention has been amplified due to an unrelated legal matter from 2010, when he and fellow France international Karim Benzema were investigated in France over allegations involving an underage prostitute. Those charges were dismissed in 2014 after courts found no proof the players were aware of the individual’s age. Currently, US authorities have indicated no legal action against Ribery, and the implications of the document release remain uncertain. (With inputs from Agencies)