Karim Benzema will not play in Euro 2016 amid blackmail investigation

Karim Benzema will not be selected to play for the French national team during Euro 2016.

Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema will not be selected to play for the French national team during Euro 2016, the French Football Federation announced Wednesday. 

The FFF’s decision comes as Benzema continues to be investigated for his involvement in an attempt to blackmail Lyon winger and national teammate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape. 

Benzema is accused of attempting to act as communicator between the blackmailers and Valbuena.

• French prime minister against Karim Benzema’s return to national team

The confirmation of Benzema’s exclusion from the roster came after he tweeted that he wouldn’t be joining the team for Euros.

Malheureusement pour moi et pour tous ceux qui m'ont toujours soutenu et supporté. Je ne serai pas sélectionné pour notre Euro en France...

— Karim Benzema (@Benzema) April 13, 2016

Benzema was arrested on charges of conspiracy to blackmail in November and had been ordered to avoid contact with Valbuena. He was subsequently suspended from the national team indefinitely. 

France will host Euro 2016 from June 10 to July 10.