Scandal-hit France football president Noel Le Graet resigns

Long-serving France football (FFF) president Noel Le Graet stepped down from his position on Tuesday after allegations of sexual and psychological harassment.

Le Graet made the announcement of his resignation during an executive committee meeting of the federation on Tuesday.

"The FFF recognises the remarkable sporting and economic performance of Noel Le Graet," the federation said in a statement, before hitting out at the authors of the audit.

"The report does not mention any systematic failing," it added. "The FFF nevertheless notes that the report is based less on objective facts than on comments that have sometimes led to exaggerated bad-mouthing of the body."

FFF's vice-president Philippe Diallo is reported to continue as the interim president. Diallo has been serving as the interim president since Le Graet step aside from his role pending enquiry of FFF audit.

Diallo is reported to continue at the post untill the new president is mandated in June.

The resignation of Le Graet came nearly two weeks after a French goverment commissioned report detailed the unfair management practices of the FFF under Le Graet.

"Considering his conduct towards women, his public comments and the governance failings of the FFF, Mr Le Graet no longer has the necessary legitimacy to run and represent French football," the report said.

Le Graet (81) was serving as the FFF chief for over a decade now, during which France men's team won the FIFA World Cup in 2018 and was the runner-up in 2022.

Le Graet agreed to step down from French football chief post back in January pending the outcome of a FFF audit. The audit later concluded that the football chief should not resume duty at the post because of his "behavioural excesses are incompatible with the carrying out of his functions".

Later in January it was reported that Le Graet is being investigated for sexual and psychological harassment following allegations made by a female football agent, Sonia Souid.

Le Graet was facing criticism since making dismissive remarks about Zinedine Zidane as potential coach of national team during a radio interview. The unpopular remark came right after Didier Deschamps was renewed as France coach till 2026.