Sir Lynton Crosby offered a pitch ‘Project Ball,' which described a number of actions by his lobbying firm CTF Partners aimed to cancel the 2022 Qatar World Cup in return for £5.5 million.
In other news. Prince Charles just knighted Sir Lynton Crosby: pic.twitter.com/rwMhP4sALW
— Harry Cole (@MrHarryCole) May 6, 2016
According to leaked documents, Sir Lynton was prepared to spread negative stories about Qatar in the media, run fake grassroots campaigns on social media, and lobby his contacts in politics and academia. He would also create and perpetuate a narrative including the idea of linking the state's activities to terrorism in the minds of the public.
The Australian has reportedly said firm would require £300,000 a month for a year and a half to smear the Qatari government pressure FIFA to 'restart the bidding process,' to ultimately have another nation host the championship.
In defence of their client, Crosby's lawyers argued that it was "legitimate for one party to use the services of people/entities such as our clients to put important information into the public domain in an effective manner."
READ MORE: Media Speculate on New Rumors About Qatar's Misconduct During World Cup Bid
Among Crosby's interactions with UK businessmen and politicians were running general election campaigns (including the 2005 campaign that saw David Cameron secure the position of PM), lending money to government officials (including a £20,000 interest-free loan for Boris Johnson) and donating generous gifts to Conservative MPs.
The likes of the Health Minister Matt Hancock and Defence Minister Gavin Williamson were among guests at CTF's Christmas party.