FIFA Investigates Congolese Football Officials for Misuse

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against senior officials of the Congolese Football Federation (Fecofoot) due to allegations of financial misconduct. The investigation involves Fecofoot President Jean Gui Mayola, who has been sentenced to life imprisonment in absentia, alongside his wife and son, for embezzling funds designated for football development.

The trial took place without their presence, and their whereabouts remain unknown. Additionally, Fecofoot General Secretary Wantet Badji and Treasurer Raoul Kanda were sentenced to five years in prison.

The court found that they misused $1.3 million from FIFA, which was meant for a project to train women in football and for COVID-19 relief efforts. FIFA's ethics committee is currently reviewing documents related to this case to determine further disciplinary actions against the implicated officials.