Vítor Bruno recently commented on the ongoing email investigation involving Benfica during a preview for the Sintrense-FC Porto match, set for Sunday.
He noted that there are responsible individuals handling the matter and emphasized that Porto’s president aims to make these corruption cases a priority to clean up Portuguese football. However, Bruno refrained from commenting on what actions might be taken, particularly regarding Benfica, saying it wasn’t his place to speculate.
Bruno also wanted to clarify some things to prevent any conspiracy theories from spreading in Portugal. He pointed out that André Villas-Boas is committed to putting an end to this issue.
So, what exactly is the corruption scandal surrounding Benfica?
Recently, prosecutors accused SL Benfica and its former president, Luís Filipe Vieira, of match-fixing, tax fraud, and embezzlement between 2016 and 2019. This investigation, known as the “Caso dos Mails,” revealed a corruption network that also involved Vitória de Setúbal, another Portuguese top-flight club.
One of Portugal’s biggest clubs, Benfica, now faces serious scrutiny due to these allegations. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has even requested the suspension of the club, which could have far-reaching consequences for Portuguese football. If this suspension goes through, it could lead to players terminating their contracts and making claims for damages.
Apart from the club, former president Luís Filipe Vieira is facing charges of match-fixing, tax fraud, and embezzlement. The investigation, covering 2016 to 2019, also implicates other members of the club’s management. According to the prosecutors, Benfica allegedly orchestrated a scheme to move funds through fake transactions, with each participant benefiting from this arrangement, particularly in terms of sporting outcomes.
Adding to the controversy, the public prosecutor has requested that a former star of AC Milan and Benfica testify against the previous management. If the suspension is approved, it could last up to three years, potentially preventing Benfica from competing in the Primeira Liga, and affecting key players like Ángel Di María.
One of the more shocking elements of the case involves alleged embezzlement through a company based in Brazil. The investigation claims Benfica used this company to justify large payments as commissions for non-existent services, all to discreetly transfer funds.
The “Caso dos Mails” traces back to 2017, when individuals linked to FC Porto leaked private emails from Benfica on Porto Canal, showing signs of corruption. This led to a police investigation covering the years 2016 to 2019.
At this point, prosecutors have formally charged Benfica, Vieira, the club’s former legal advisor Paulo Gonçalves, and several directors from Vitória de Setúbal. The sports brokerage company OLISPORTS has also been implicated for its involvement in these fraudulent deals.
Financial challenge for Benfica
This situation presents a huge financial challenge for Benfica. Despite raising €50 million through a bond issue in May, the current allegations threaten to harm the club’s market credibility. If the charges are proven, the club could face financial disaster.
In response, Benfica issued a statement denying the allegations, calling them “unfounded,” and vowed to defend its innocence in every way possible. The club stressed that it will fight these accusations, which it believes lack any solid basis.
While the public prosecutor is pushing for the club’s suspension, current sports regulations don’t actually support such harsh penalties in corruption cases. According to sports law expert Lúcio Correia, the disciplinary rules in place at the time (2016-2019) would only allow for a points deduction, but since those seasons are already finalized, this isn’t possible. A fine would be the only viable punishment.
Correia also suggested that the disciplinary system needs updating, saying, “It’s shocking to think that a serious crime like corruption could only be punished with a fine. The league and federation should reconsider the rules.”
Meanwhile, Vitória de Setúbal, now struggling in the lower divisions, has expressed hope that justice will be served.
As the “Caso dos Mails” unfolds, its impact will continue to ripple through Portuguese football. Benfica’s future, both financially and on the field, now depends on its ability to mount a solid legal defense and avoid severe penalties that could threaten its status in the Primeira Liga.