BREAKING: Federal prosecutors in New York have just announced the dismissal of bribery charges against Hernan Lopez, a former Fox employee implicated in the massive FIFA bribery scandal. This decision marks a significant shift in a legal battle that has spanned several years, impacting broadcasting rights for the World Cup and other major soccer events.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office confirmed on October 31, 2023, that the charges against Lopez and his co-defendant, Full Play Group, an Argentine sports media rights company, are being dropped “in the interests of justice.” U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella communicated this in a letter to U.S. District Judge Pamela Chen, who presided over the case.
Lopez was previously convicted in 2024 for paying tens of millions in bribes to secure broadcasting rights. His convictions included charges of money laundering, conspiracy, and wire fraud conspiracy. Full Play was also found guilty on two additional counts related to these offenses.
Earlier this year, a federal appeals court reinstated these convictions after Judge Chen granted a motion for acquittal, a ruling that the current Biden-era Justice Department has now moved to overturn. In a Tuesday filing, the Solicitor General’s Office recommended the Supreme Court hear Lopez’s appeal, reverse the appeals court decision, and allow the case to be dismissed by a New York federal judge.
This abrupt dismissal has raised questions about the future of similar cases tied to the FIFA scandal, which has rocked the soccer world and led to numerous indictments and convictions in recent years. The implications of this decision could resonate throughout the industry, affecting how broadcasting rights are negotiated and perceived moving forward.
Officials have not yet commented on the broader ramifications of this decision, but it signals a dramatic turnaround in a case that has been closely watched by legal experts and sports fans alike.
For now, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court as they consider their next steps regarding the appeal. The outcome could reshape the landscape of sports broadcasting and legal accountability in the world of professional soccer.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.