The report says France’s ban on tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches came into force on 1 April, making their possession and import illegal unless they are classified as medicinal products.
That means pouches bought legally in another country may still create problems on arrival in France. Customs officials could reportedly intercept and destroy them, with the wider legal consequences potentially serious.
The issue also reaches beyond Olise. Nicotine pouches have become increasingly visible in football dressing rooms, while concerns remain over dependency and player welfare. Bennett has warned that many players are “not fully aware of its effects and addictive qualities”.
For Olise, the controversy comes during a breakthrough international campaign. The report says the Bayern Munich forward has been one of France’s most productive players at his first World Cup, with his creativity becoming a major part of Didier Deschamps’ attack.
That form has made the customs story more notable, not less. Olise is leaving the tournament with his reputation enhanced, but any return to France could bring an unnecessary distraction if the reported restrictions apply to the products seen among his belongings.
France are expected to contest the World Cup third-place play-off after their reported semi-final defeat by Spain. The match could also mark the end of Deschamps’ tenure, adding another layer to an already significant fixture.
For Olise, the priority is clear: finish a memorable tournament strongly. After that, the next storyline will be whether the reported customs concern becomes anything more than a warning-or follows him home from the World Cup.