FIFA's ethics committee has formally begun an investigation into Germany's 2006 World Cup bid and the officials involved including Franz Beckenbauer.

The legendary Germany player is among four officials that have been linked to suspect payments and contracts during the bidding process and irregular seven-figure payments that were made years later.

The 70-year-old, who has publicly denied wrongdoing, resigned last week from his role as a television analyst citing the need for a break.

In a statement on the FIFA website, the organisation detailed aspects of the investigation: "In the cases of Mr Beckenbauer, Dr Zwanziger, Mr Schmidt and Mr Hans, the investigatory chamber will investigate possible undue payments and contracts to gain an advantage in the 2006 FIFA World Cup™ host selection and the associated funding, which could constitute a breach of arts 13, 15, 18 and 19 as well as art. 20 (Offering and accepting gifts and other benefits) and art. 21 (Bribery and corruption) of the FIFA Code of Ethics."