São Paulo Ethics Committee Schedules Hearing for Directors Amidst Illegal Ticket Sales Allegations

The São Paulo Futebol Clube Ethics Committee has scheduled a hearing for February 23rd at 7:00 PM to investigate Douglas Schwartzmann and Mara Casares regarding allegations of the illegal exploitation of a box at the Morumbis stadium. The case centers on a potential violation of the club’s internal rules and will be formally reviewed during a session of the committee.

Investigation Details

The hearing will allow the Ethics Committee to hear from Schwartzmann and Casares, as well as other individuals involved in the controversy. The investigation stems from a leaked audio recording revealing a scheme to clandestinely sell access to a VIP box at the Morumbis stadium during events, including a Shakira concert in February according to reports from Globo Esporte.

Ethics Committee Composition

The São Paulo Ethics Commission comprises five members, led by President Antônio Maria Patiño. Other members include José Edgard Galvão, Luiz Augusto Braga, Marcelo Felipe Neli, and Milton José Neves Júnior. Luiz Braga has been designated as the rapporteur for this specific process. Metrópoles reports that the committee is responsible for evaluating the conduct of club associates and advisors based on the institution’s bylaws.

Potential Penalties

Article 34 of the club’s Bylaws outlines the penalties applicable to members found to have committed infractions. These penalties range from a warning to suspension, compensation, loss of mandate, temporary ineligibility, and even elimination from membership. The severity of the sanction, if a conviction is reached, will be determined by the committee members based on the gravity of the conduct.

Recent Developments

Both Douglas Schwartzmann, formerly the director adjunto of São Paulo’s football base, and Mara Casares, the ex-wife of club president Julio Casares and former director of women’s, cultural, and event affairs, have requested leave from their positions pending the outcome of the investigation. As reported by UOL Esporte, the club initiated the investigation following media reports of the leaked audio.

Key Takeaways

• The São Paulo Ethics Committee will hold a hearing on February 23rd to address allegations of illegal ticket sales.
• Douglas Schwartzmann and Mara Casares are the subjects of the investigation.
• Potential penalties for violations range from warnings to expulsion from the club.
• Both Schwartzmann and Casares have temporarily stepped down from their roles.