(CNN) -- He's been a principal figure in German football for decades, winning the 1974 World Cup as a player before becoming Bayern Munich's club president, but Uli Hoeness' world could come crashing down after being charged with tax evasion on Tuesday. The former Bayern star, who won three European Cups as well as a European Championship title with West Germany in 1972, could end up in jail for his transgressions. After a months-long probe which has attracted considerable interest in Germany, the 61-year-old has been charged following an investigation into unpaid taxes on a Swiss account in his name.
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Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness charged with tax evasion by a court in Munich
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Former West German international's defense team has four weeks to answer charges
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Issues relates to unspecified Swiss bank account in Hoeness' name
After joining Bayern as an 18-year-old in 1970, Hoeness -- who could play either in midfield or attack -- became a key player for the club, winning three league titles and three straight @placeholder Cups between 1974-1976.