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Congo’s football chief accused of embezzling $1.3 million in FIFA funds
Jean-Guy Blaise Mayolas, president of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT), is facing legal scrutiny following accusations of embezzling $1.3 million in FIFA funds, including $500,000 designated for the women’s national team.
Mayolas was arrested in late May by Congo’s central intelligence office and now faces charges of forgery and money laundering. Authorities suspect that the funds, allocated for football development projects, were misappropriated under his leadership.
Misuse of FIFA funds
According to The Guardian, Mayolas allegedly diverted over $800,000 in FIFA development funds intended for constructing a national football training center in Ingné. Originally planned for completion eight years ago, the project remains unfinished, and the funds have been frozen with no visible progress on site. Mayolas is also accused of using a network of shell companies to siphon off these development funds.
A separate declaration signed by the presidents of all women’s football clubs in March revealed that only $20,000 of the $500,000 in FIFA COVID-19 relief funds allocated in 2021 ever reached the teams. This revelation has intensified scrutiny over Mayolas’ administration.
FIFA involvement and upcoming hearing
In March, FIFA’s ethics committee visited Congo to assess the claims of corruption, though a formal investigation has yet to be opened. Mayolas, who has been at the helm of FECOFOOT since 2018, is expected to attend a hearing this week in Brazzaville to address the allegations.
The scandal has further spotlighted governance issues in African football, raising concerns about the misuse of funds meant to develop the sport and support athletes.
