FIFA Ethics Committee Opens Proceedings Against Congolese Officials

The investigatory chamber of FIFA’s independent Ethics Committee has launched formal proceedings against three senior figures within the Congolese Football Association (FECOFOOT) for alleged financial misconduct tied to the use of FIFA funds.

The move follows a review process initiated by FIFA, during which information and documentation were gathered indicating potential irregularities in how allocated funds were managed. According to FIFA, the material revealed inconsistencies that warranted further scrutiny, leading the investigatory chamber to conclude there was a prima facie case to proceed.

Those under investigation include FECOFOOT president Jean Guy Mayolas, who also serves as a member of FIFA’s Media and Communications Committee, General Secretary Wantete Badji, and Finance Director Raoul Kanda.

The case will examine whether their conduct breached multiple provisions of the FIFA Code of Ethics. Potential violations cited include misappropriation and misuse of funds, forgery and falsification, conflicts of interest, and the offering or acceptance of gifts and other benefits. FIFA noted that the list of possible breaches could be expanded or amended as the investigation develops.

FIFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring that funds distributed to member associations are used responsibly and transparently, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity in football governance worldwide.

As the proceedings remain ongoing, FIFA stated that it will not provide further comment until the investigation has concluded.