Sports
FIFA bans former Brazilian football executive Marco Polo Del Nero for life over corruption
What happened
FIFA has imposed a lifetime ban on Marco Polo Del Nero, former president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), for corruption. The decision follows a lengthy investigation into financial misconduct and unethical practices within the CBF. Del Nero, who served as CBF president from 2012 to 2017, is barred from all football-related activities, including attending matches or holding office.
Key facts
bullet: FIFA’s Ethics Committee issued a lifetime ban on Marco Polo Del Nero on August 9, 2026.
bullet: The ban prohibits Del Nero from participating in any football-related activities, including attending matches or holding office.
bullet: The investigation stemmed from allegations of financial misconduct and unethical practices within the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
bullet: Del Nero served as CBF president from 2012 to 2017 before stepping down amid ongoing scrutiny.
bullet: FIFA’s decision follows a multi-year probe into corruption within South American football governance.
Context
bullet: Marco Polo Del Nero was the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) from 2012 to 2017. bullet: FIFA’s Ethics Committee oversees investigations into corruption and unethical conduct in football governance. bullet: The CBF is Brazil’s governing body for football, responsible for national team selection and domestic competitions. bullet: FIFA’s lifetime ban is the most severe disciplinary measure it can impose on individuals involved in football.