Benfica under investigation for match-fixing between 2016-2020

Benfica are under investigation for match fixing for the period between 2016 and 2020. The current investigation arises from prosecutors having access to emails which showcase that the club benefited from fraudulent activities. 

Luis Filipe Vieira, the former president, resigned after being arrested for charges relating to tax evasion, aggravated fraud, forgery and money laundering. He was also accused of embezzling funds, alongside a fellow defendant, totalling around £2m. 

Benfica under investigation for match fixing 

‘Taking into account the news made public today, Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol SAD confirms that it appeared in court on January 3, as well as, among others, the members of the Board of Directors from 2016 to 2020 and who are currently in office,’ the club’s brief statement reads. 

‘Benfica SAD will not comment further as the trial is under legal secrecy. Benfica expresses its total willingness to collaborate with the competent authorities, as has always happened up to now.’ 

After the dismissal of Luis Filipe Vieira, Rui Costa was named the new president of the club. The priority for the club was to enter a new era of transparency and accountability. And a year and a half after Costa’s time as president, he is one of those under investigation for match fixing.