BREAKING: Federal prosecutors in New York have just announced the dismissal of all charges against Hernan Lopez, a former employee of Fox, in the ongoing FIFA bribery scandal. This decision marks a significant turn in a lengthy legal battle involving broadcasting rights to the World Cup and major soccer events.
In a dramatic move on October 17, 2023, prosecutors cited the “interests of justice” as the primary reason for dropping charges against Lopez and the implicated Full Play Group, an Argentine sports media rights company. This decision aims to reverse a previous appeals court ruling that reinstated Lopez’s convictions.
Lopez was convicted in 2024 for paying tens of millions in bribes to secure lucrative broadcasting rights. The legal saga has entangled multiple administrations, with the current Biden administration now advocating for the case’s dismissal. U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Joseph Nocella, submitted a letter to U.S. District Judge Pamela Chen urging that the charges be dropped to serve justice.
In a related filing to the Supreme Court on the same day, the Solicitor General’s Office reinforced this recommendation, requesting the court reverse the appeals court’s reinstatement of Lopez’s conviction and return the case to a New York federal judge for dismissal.
This abrupt change in direction comes after a federal appeals court reinstated Lopez’s convictions earlier this year, following an acquittal motion granted by Judge Chen in 2024. The implications of this dismissal are profound, potentially affecting numerous future cases tied to corruption within international sporting bodies.
The charged parties, including Full Play Group, faced severe penalties, including convictions for money laundering and wire fraud, all connected to the FIFA scandal that has drawn scrutiny from around the globe. The outcome of this case could reshape how similar cases are prosecuted in the future.
As this story develops, the legal landscape of sports broadcasting rights will likely face further scrutiny. Stakeholders and fans alike are keenly observing the ramifications of these decisions, which could redefine accountability in global sports governance.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation evolves, and share this urgent news with others who need to know about these critical developments!
