A federal judge in Brooklyn has dismissed charges against Hernan Lopez, the former CEO of Fox International Channels, who was convicted in 2023 for his role in a bribery scheme involving broadcasting rights for major soccer tournaments. The decision came after prosecutors argued that the case no longer aligned with the priorities of the Trump administration.
Judge Pamela K. Chen accepted the government's motion to drop the indictment, citing a letter from U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. stating that the administration prefers to focus on domestic and foreign terrorist organizations, national security, narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, and violent gangs. Chen noted that the explanation provided sufficient justification for dismissal.
Lopez and Full Play Group SA, a South American sports media company, were found guilty of paying tens of millions of dollars in bribes for broadcasting rights to the World Cup and other matches. However, Chen later granted an acquittal, which was reinstated by an appeals court in July. Additional appeals followed, leaving the case's fate uncertain.
FIFA, soccer's governing body, supported the dismissal, stating it would not affect other convictions in the broader corruption probe. FIFA also highlighted that $201 million had been turned over to support soccer-related community projects worldwide, including after-school leagues in Miami and field refurbishments in the US.
