Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema was expected to play a huge role for France in the World Cup, after being involved in the qualifying process.

However, Benzema was hit with an injury just before the start of the tournament.

Despite not taking part of the competition, Benzema would still pick up his World Cup medal, if France go on to win the competition or at least finish in a top three spot.

According to RMC Sport, Karim Benzema will be able to pick up a World Cup winner’s medal should France go all the way in Qatar, despite his withdrawal just before the opening game against Australia, due to a thigh injury.

The French outlet claims to have contacted FIFA regarding the regulation, with FIFA responding that they would be handing out 26 medals to the FFF in that scenario.

France boss Didier Deschamps opted to not call a replacement for Benzema, which is why Benzema’s medal will be sure even if he doesn’t kick a ball in Qatar, as the Madrid striker is still registered to feature in the competition.

Should he recover from his injury while France are still in the running, Benzema would be available for selection again.

Lucas Hernandez, whose tournament got over after an injury in the first ten minutes of the opener, would also receive a medal. However, there would be no medal for Christopher Nkunku, who was replaced by Randal Kolo Muani before the start of the tournament.