URGENT UPDATE: Federal prosecutors in New York have just announced they are dropping all charges against Hernan Lopez, a former employee of Fox, in connection with the explosive FIFA bribery scandal. This pivotal decision ends a lengthy legal battle over the controversial broadcasting rights for major soccer events, including the World Cup and Copa America.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office moved swiftly on October 3, 2023, to recommend that the Supreme Court reverse an appeals court ruling that had reinstated Lopez’s convictions. Prosecutors cited the “interests of justice” as the key reason for their decision, indicating a significant shift in legal strategy concerning the case.
In a letter to U.S. District Judge Pamela Chen, who has overseen the case, Joseph Nocella, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, stated that the charges against Lopez and Full Play Group, the Argentine sports media rights company implicated in the scandal, should be dismissed. This marks a dramatic turning point for Lopez, who was convicted in 2024 on serious charges including money laundering and conspiracy related to the bribery scheme.
Earlier this year, a federal appeals court had ordered the reinstatement of these convictions after Judge Chen granted a motion for acquittal. The Biden-era Justice Department had been fighting to uphold the convictions, but today’s announcement signifies a major reversal.
The Solicitor General’s Office, in a filing submitted to the Supreme Court, echoed the U.S. Attorney’s sentiments, arguing that the case should be dismissed entirely. This recommendation has the potential to reshape the legal landscape surrounding sports broadcasting rights and corruption in the industry.
Lopez’s conviction had drawn considerable attention due to the substantial amounts involved—tens of millions of dollars in bribes. The scandal has raised serious questions about integrity in sports and the lengths to which organizations will go to secure lucrative broadcasting deals.
As this situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court, which now has the opportunity to consider the implications of this case for future legal precedents in sports and broadcasting rights. What happens next could redefine accountability in high-stakes sports negotiations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story progresses. This significant decision by federal authorities could have lasting ramifications for the integrity of sports media rights worldwide.
