Spanish Basketball Federation to be audited over corruption allegations

MADRID, Spain – Spain’s secretary of state for sport, Miguel Cardenal, confirmed on Monday, December 14 the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB) will be audited after press reports of alleged wrongdoing on the part of its president.

El Mundo reported that Jose Luis Saez is suspected of receiving commissions for improving contracts the FEB had already agreed with third parties. 

The FEB categorically denied those allegations in a statement in which they dismissed the claims as “mere assumptions and suspicions without the proof of any document.”

Anomalies in the FEB’s accounts have been brought to the attention of the Spanish sports council, chaired by Cardenal, by federation officials.

“We have received the report and it is being processed as quickly as possible. Everyone will have the right to make their case and offer their accounts so that an informed judgement can be made,” said Cardenal.

“We have to see what legal response is appropriate,” he added when pushed on whether the allegations would be presented to public prosecutors.

“There is the report and there are actions, which, if they are corroborated, absolutely do not correspond to the obligations of any federation or person.

“We will check and (if confirmed) look for those responsible.”

The FEB has an annual budget of around 19 million euros (995,477,536 Philippine pesos*), just under 10 percent of which comes from the sports council.

In a statement issued last week, the FEB insisted they would co-operate with any investigation, but that Saez is currently unable to work due to a medical issue.

Spain’s star-studded national team also released a statement at the weekend calling for “stability” at the federation just 8 months ahead of the Rio Olympics when they are expected to challenge for the medals. – Rappler.com

*1 Philippine Peso equals 0.019 Euro