Kylian Mbappé Denies Involvement in Swedish Rape Inquiry Amidst Media Storm

French football star Kylian Mbappé has expressed his astonishment at media reports linking him to a rape inquiry in Sweden. Despite the media frenzy, his lawyer maintains that the player remains calm, asserting his innocence. Swedish authorities have confirmed that a senior prosecutor is investigating a report of suspected rape in Stockholm, but no individuals have been officially named.

The allegations have placed Mbappé at the center of a media storm, with Swedish outlets reporting his involvement in an incident at a hotel in central Stockholm last Thursday. Responding to the claims, Mbappé described them as “FAKE NEWS” on his social media platform, X, where he boasts 14 million followers.

Sven-Erik Alhem, a former prosecutor in Sweden, explained that the investigation involves a lower level of suspicion under Swedish law, known as “reasonable suspicion.” This has not stopped Swedish police from conducting an investigation, reportedly searching the Bank Hotel where Mbappé stayed and leaving with evidence bags, which allegedly included clothing.

Mbappé, who was not selected for France’s recent Uefa Nations League matches, has returned to training with his club, Real Madrid. Both his legal representatives and Real Madrid have voiced their condemnation of the allegations, decrying them as defamatory. Marie-Alix Canu-Bernard, one of Mbappé’s lawyers, told French media that these reports have no basis and hinted at possible legal action for defamation.

The case has been further complicated by allegations from Mbappé’s former club, Paris Saint-Germain, regarding unpaid wages and bonuses amounting to €55m (£46m). The timing of the incident, which coincides with a legal dispute between Mbappé and PSG, has led the footballer to suggest a possible connection between the two.

In addition, Spanish journalist Romain Molina reported that Real Madrid has held an emergency meeting, likely due to the ongoing investigation. Swedish media, including Aftonbladet, has claimed that the victim identified Mbappé as the perpetrator, thereby prompting a thorough investigation of the hotel’s premises for further evidence.

Swedish lawyer Dahlrot Cabouillet commented on the legal framework surrounding such cases, highlighting that conviction could occur if it is determined that the alleged perpetrator did not receive clear consent from the victim. Cabouillet added that the absence of consent, either through words or gestures, is pivotal in such cases under Swedish law.

As the investigation continues, both French and Spanish media are closely following developments, emphasizing the gravity of the accusations. Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Mbappé are preparing for the legal challenges that lie ahead, as the player remains in training with his current team.