More charges set to be brought in Fifa probe
FURTHER charges are set to be brought as part of the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption by football’s world governing body Fifa, according to United States Attorney General Loretta Lynch yesterday.
Fourteen Fifa officials and sports marketing executives were indicted by the United States justice department in May as part of a widespread investigations into claims of bribery, money laundering and racketeering totalling more than $150m (£97m).
“The investigation has expanded since May and we do anticipate pursuing additional charges against additional individuals and entities,” said Lynch, who refused to confirm whether outgoing Fifa president Sepp Blatter is a target of US inquiries.“I cannot confirm at this time which individuals and entities are subject to further investigation.”
In a separate investigation, the Swiss attorney general opened criminal proceedings over the awarding of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively. Lynch’s Swiss counterpart, Michael Lauber, has confirmed that real estate in the Alps has been seized, while 121 bank accounts have been brought to the attention of investigators.