The world football governing body, FIFA has launched an investigation into Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior regarding allegations that he co-owns multiple football clubs while still actively playing—a situation that potentially violates governing regulations in the sport.
The 25-year-old Brazilian winger, who has been a key performer in Real Madrid’s campaign this season, now faces scrutiny over his off-field business activities.
The investigation follows a formal complaint submitted to the FIFA Ethics Committee by Brazilian investment firm Tiberis Holding.
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At the center of the controversy is ALL Agenciamento Desportivo, a company Vinicius co-owns with his father, Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira, and businessman Thassilo Soares. This company reportedly focuses on acquiring and managing football clubs.
According to reports, Vinicius’s company purchased Portuguese second-division side Alverca for approximately €10 million in February. The complaint also alleges that Tiberis was forced to sell a 16.5% stake in Athletic Club de São João del-Rei to Vinicius’s company.
These arrangements may contravene both Article 22 of the Spanish Football Federation’s Code of Sports Justice and Article 20 of FIFA’s Code of Ethics.
Both regulations prohibit active players from having direct or indirect ownership interests in football clubs, even in situations where conflicts of interest are only potential rather than actual.
Should the investigation determine that Vinicius Junior has violated these regulations, he could face significant penalties, potentially including a substantial fine or a suspension from all football-related activities for up to two years.
