São Paulo FC Faces Scrutiny Over Unaccounted Withdrawals, Calls for Account Rejection
São Paulo FC is under increased scrutiny following revelations of significant withdrawals from club bank accounts that lack proper documentation. An audit, conducted by RSM US LLP, highlighted the issue, raising concerns about the allocation of approximately R$7 million (approximately $1.4 million USD as of March 26, 2026). The findings have prompted a recommendation for the rejection of the club’s 2025 accounts by a member of the Fiscal Council.
Audit Reveals Lack of Supporting Documentation
According to a report excerpted by UOL, the RSM audit identified withdrawals from São Paulo FC bank accounts where the nature, purpose, and supporting documentation were insufficient for examination. The audit report stated, “We were unable to obtain appropriate and sufficient audit evidence to corroborate part of these withdrawals, due to the absence of supporting documents that would allow us to validate the actual allocation of the resources.”
Financial Director Admits Lack of Knowledge
Reports from UOL indicate that Sérgio Pimenta, the club’s financial director, stated he was unaware of the specific destination of the withdrawn funds during a recent meeting. The meeting lacked an official transcript, hindering independent verification of the statements made.
Former President Responds, Club Remains Silent
Julio Casares, the former president of São Paulo FC, has been contacted for comment and requested time to review the content discussed at the meeting, in which he did not participate. São Paulo FC and Sérgio Pimenta were also contacted by UOL, but have not yet issued an official response. The article will be updated if and when a response is received.
Fiscal Council Advisor Recommends Account Rejection
Paulo Faria, an advisor and effective member of the Fiscal Council, has formally recommended the rejection of the 2025 accounts to the presidents of the Deliberative Council, Olten Ayres, and the Fiscal Council, Pedro Sansão. His recommendation stems from the serious caveat identified in the independent audit regarding the unverified destination of the withdrawn funds.
RSM US LLP Commitment to Audit Quality
RSM US LLP emphasizes its commitment to audit quality, stating it is their “top priority, instilling confidence in a world of change.” (RSM US Audit Quality Report). The firm’s recent Audit Quality Report details its approach to delivering high-quality audit services.
As of March 26, 2026, the situation remains developing, and further updates are anticipated as São Paulo FC responds to the allegations and the Fiscal Council deliberates on the recommendation for account rejection.
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