French Police questions football stars over Paris prostitution ring

London, Apr 19 (ANI): French police has questioned two football stars in connection with an investigation into a prostitution ring, which has brought the reputation of the country's football team under scrutiny.

A judicial source confirmed the reports, but refused to divulge the identity of the players concerned, The Times reports.

One of the players is alleged to have had sexual relations with a prostitute under the age of 18, an offence that carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison.

A third international is also likely to be summoned for questioning by police in Paris, according to l'Equipe, France's sporting daily.

The source said a player had admitted having sex with a prostitute, but denied knowing she was aged under 18 at the time.

Judge Yves Dando, an investigating magistrate, following allegations that a Paris nightclub frequented by international football stars employed prostitutes, launched the inquiry.

A man accused of pimping activities was arrested last week.

L'Equipe said the French players were unlikely to be charged in connection with the case, but said the fallout could be "costly". It said they could face divorce proceedings and a loss of sponsorship.

Football stars frequent prostitutes in Paris in preference to other European cities because French privacy laws prevent the publication of kiss-and-tell stories, it said.

Jean-Pierre Escalettes, the president of the French Football Federation, said: "An investigation is underway. At the moment it is not possible to make a comment." (ANI)