Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema has been ruled out of France’s World Cup campaign after suffering a thigh injury.
The Real Madrid striker was honoured last month for his brilliant season in 2021/22, when he won a fifth Champions League title with the Spanish giants.
Benzema would have been one of the most high-profile players for holders France in Qatar but it was revealed on Saturday evening that he will play no part in the tournament.
A message on the team’s official Twitter feed read: “Karim @Benzema has pulled out of the World Cup with a thigh injury. The whole team shares Karim’s disappointment and wishes him a speedy recovery.”
France, who could call up a replacement, take on Australia in their opening match on Tuesday before other group games against Denmark and Tunisia.
World Cup: More from Sporting Life
- World Cup 2022: Sporting Life Hub
- World Cup 2022: Tips, best bets & analysis
- World Cup 2022: All you need to know
- World Cup 2022: Fixtures, results & live scores
- Free downloadable World Cup wallchart
- Free downloadable World Cup sweepstake kit
- Follow Sporting Life Football on Facebook
- Download our free iOS and Android app
