Dominique Strauss-Kahn's downfall is looking less certain following the emergence of "major holes" in the evidence against him over allegations of sexual assault.
The former head of the International Monetary Fund, who has now been replaced by French finance minister Christine Lagarde, was accused of sexually assaulting a Manhattan hotel worker in May.
But according to the New York Times, which discussed the proceedings with two anonymous law enforcement officers, the case against him is weak in several areas.
There is said to be concern over the strength of the chambermaid's testimony and her credibility, and even whispers about her being on tape discussing the potential financial rewards of her accusing Mr Strauss-Kahn.
The French politician has maintained his innocence since the case began.
If Mr Strauss-Kahn is cleared, the question will be whether he can recover from the bad publicity to challenge President Sarkozy at next year's elections, as he had previously been tipped to do.