Real Madrid’s prominent star, Vinicius Junior, is under scrutiny for a significant violation of FIFA’s Code of Ethics, potentially facing a career-altering two-year suspension due to claims of holding shares in several football clubs.
The issue originates from a complaint lodged on April 7 by Tiberis Holding do Brasil, a Brazilian firm alleging that Vinicius, via a company associated with his father and agent, Thassilo Soares, possesses direct or indirect interests in professional football clubs, an action forbidden under FIFA’s Code of Ethics.
Tiberis claims that the Real Madrid forward had connections to Athletic Club de Sao Joao del Rei (Brazil) and Alercom (a Portuguese second-division club).
The firm stated it was denied a preferential right to purchase Athletic’s shares, which were subsequently sold to an entity tied to Vinicius.
FIFA rules are explicit and stringent in these matters. According to Article 20 of the FIFA Code of Ethics and Article 22 of the Spanish Sports Code: “A player may not directly or indirectly own shares in professional football clubs at national or international level if there is any risk of a conflict of interest”.
Should the Ethics Committee find that this regulation has been breached, Vinicius Jr could face a suspension of up to two years—a severe setback for both Real Madrid and the Brazil national team, particularly with major tournaments approaching.
The probe also uncovered the expanding football investment ventures of the company managed by Vinicius’ father and agent. The contentious share transfer has prompted a formal complaint, with Tiberis calling for disciplinary measures against one of the most prominent and commercially significant figures in football today.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
