Mbappe and Four France Players Protest Use of Images in Gambling Ad

G. E (Elbotola)

06 June 2026at22:06

French press reports have indicated that five prominent players in the French national team, led by Kylian Mbappé, have expressed their dissatisfaction with the use of their images in an advertisement for a sports betting company.

L'Equipe reported that the advertisement, published just days before the start of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, sparked widespread controversy. The list of protesting players included Rayan Cherki, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Désiré Doué.

Mbappé is considered one of the most vocal critics of this association, given his firm stance against promoting sports betting, which he has described as posing a significant danger, leading to addiction, and destroying communities.

Mbappé stated: "In reality, we did not agree to the image rights charter, concerning things like fast food and the promotion of sports betting. We represent France and are a source of inspiration, and some of us come from neighborhoods where these practices have destroyed countless lives." He further noted that this phenomenon has personally affected people he knows.

The French national team captain further commented on the incident, saying: "The danger of betting lies in the absence of limits. A little respect, please." This statement alluded to the social and educational implications of such advertisements.

For its part, the company involved affirmed that it had adhered to the terms of its agreement signed with the French Football Federation (FFF). It suggested that raising the issue of image rights was a tactic to pressure the federation during ongoing negotiations concerning bonuses and the distribution of player earnings.

Conversely, the issue of image rights has been a persistent source of tension between players and the FFF for several years. This ongoing friction exists despite the federation's previous commitment to discuss the names and nature of sponsors with the team captain and vice-captain at least twice each season, a pledge that has not prevented renewed disputes as major tournaments approach.

Q&A

What action did Kylian Mbappé and other France players take regarding a gambling advertisement?

Kylian Mbappé, alongside four other French national team players, protested the unauthorized use of their images in a sports betting advertisement. They expressed strong dissatisfaction, citing the significant social dangers and potential for addiction associated with such promotions.

Why are French national team players protesting the use of their images in gambling ads?

Players are protesting because they believe promoting sports betting poses significant social dangers, leading to addiction and community destruction. This issue also highlights a persistent tension between players and the French Football Federation over image rights and sponsor agreements.

What are the broader implications of this protest for the French national team and its federation?

This protest underscores ongoing friction between players and the French Football Federation regarding image rights and commercial agreements. It suggests future disputes are likely, especially as major tournaments approach, despite previous FFF pledges to discuss sponsors with team leadership.