FIFA's ethics committee has opened formal proceedings against six individuals, including former World Cup winning coach and player Franz Beckenbauer, over the awarding of the 2006 World Cup to Germany.

The corruption crisis surrounding Germany’s 2006 World Cup has intensified after tax authorities launched raids on the country’s football federation (DFB) and private residences.

Fresh allegations that bribes were paid to help Germany secure the 2006 World Cup have surfaced with claims that a FIFA member from New Zealand was paid 250,000 US dollars on the eve of the vote.

“No votes were bought in order to win the right to stage the 2006 World Cup.”