Karim Benzema sex tape scandal: Real Madrid star confirms he will not make France squad for Euro 2016

Real Madrid star Karim Benzema has confirmed he will miss Euro 2016. The 28-year-old striker took to Twitter to confirm Didier Deschamps will not consider him for the France squad following the sex tape blackmail scandal involving the player and his compatriot Mathieu Valbuena.

The French Football Federation suspended the striker indefinitely in December, after the Real Madrid star was put under formal investigation for his alleged involvement on the blackmail of Valbuena.

Benzema allegedly contacted Valbuena to persuade him to strike a deal with blackmailers who were threatening to publish a sex tape of him. Benzema admitted he contacted Valbuena on behalf of a childhood friend, but denied any wrongdoing.

Deschamps left the striker out of his squad for last month's friendlies against the Netherlands and Russia, despite a ban on the player having any contact with Valbuena being lifted.

France's prime minister, Manuel Valls, backed the manager of his country's national team, telling Radio Monte Carlo: "The conditions for Karim Benzema to return to the France team have not been met at the moment."

However, it was thought Benzema may have had a chance to return to Les Bleus in time for Euro 2016 after another impressive campaign in La Liga, netting 25 goals in 29 appearances.

Earlier this week, Benzema revealed Deschamps and Noel le Graet, the president of the French FA, would meet to discuss the situation.

Benzema has now confirmed on Twitter the decision has been made, and he will be overlooked for the tournament in his homeland.

He wrote: "Unfortunately for me and for all those who have always supported me, I will not be selected for our Euro in France."