BREAKING: Federal prosecutors in New York just announced they are dropping charges against Hernan Lopez, a former employee of Fox, involved in the massive FIFA bribery scandal. This urgent development marks a significant turning point in a legal battle that has lasted for years and involved millions in alleged bribes for broadcasting rights to major soccer events.
On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella informed U.S. District Judge Pamela Chen that the charges against Lopez and Full Play Group, an Argentine sports media rights company, should be dismissed “in the interests of justice.” This decision comes amid ongoing appeals related to Lopez’s previous convictions.
Lopez was found guilty in 2024 of serious offenses, including money laundering and conspiracy, after a jury trial in Brooklyn. Full Play Group faced additional counts of wire fraud conspiracy linked to the World Cup and Copa America. However, earlier this year, a federal appeals court reinstated these convictions after a motion for acquittal was granted by Judge Chen.
The Department of Justice has since sought to reverse the appeals court’s decision, citing the necessity for dismissal as supported by the Solicitor General’s Office. They recommend that the Supreme Court should hear Lopez’s appeal and ultimately dismiss the case.
This sudden shift raises critical questions about the future of the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding FIFA and the integrity of soccer broadcasting rights. The implications of this case extend beyond Lopez and Full Play Group, potentially affecting future legal standards regarding sports media rights and corruption.
Lawyers for Full Play Group declined to comment on this development, while efforts to reach Lopez’s representatives are ongoing. The case has drawn significant media attention due to its high-profile nature and the substantial amounts of money involved in the alleged bribery.
As this story develops, observers are advised to monitor the Supreme Court’s response and any further actions from the Justice Department. The outcome could reshape the landscape of sports broadcasting rights and influence future legal battles in similar corruption cases.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this urgent story. The ramifications of this decision are sure to resonate within the sports community and beyond.
