Slovak Football Association Embroiled in €35 Million iPhone Dispute
Bratislava – The Slovak Football Association (SFZ) is facing a growing financial crisis as three companies claim the organization owes them millions of euros for the alleged delivery of 34,000 iPhones. The dispute centers around guarantees purportedly provided by SFZ President Ján Kováčik, a claim the association vehemently denies. The situation has prompted the Minister of Tourism and Sport to temporarily suspend funding to the SFZ.
The Core of the Dispute
The controversy revolves around transactions facilitated by the company Best Press. While the SFZ acknowledges ordering approximately 6,000 cheaper Xiaomi phones through Best Press for distribution to regional and local clubs, it maintains it never ordered or received any Apple iPhones.
However, Asbis, Swan, and Apex Services assert they delivered a combined total of 34,000 iPhones to the SFZ via Best Press and are now seeking payment. The total value of the disputed iPhones could reach €35 million, exceeding the SFZ’s annual budget. Two of the companies have already initiated legal proceedings, with a third preparing to do so.
SFZ’s Response and Denials
The SFZ insists any alleged guarantees relate solely to transactions between Best Press and the suppliers, and do not involve the association directly. “If there is a relationship, it is between Best Press and the suppliers. The guarantee that the opposing side is operating on concerns goods that we never ordered and never received,” stated SFZ spokesperson Juraj Čurný.
The association claims it purchased 14,000 Xiaomi devices, not iPhones, and distributed approximately 6,000 of them to football community members.
Best Press and Previous Legal Issues
The case is complicated by the background of Ján Šípoš, the owner of Best Press, who was convicted of forgery in January 2025 and sentenced to home detention. Best Press previously provided the SFZ with approximately 1,500 printers in 2020, which were also distributed to regional clubs.
Ministerial Response
Rudolf Huliak, the Minister of Tourism and Sport, has publicly criticized the SFZ and suspended its funding. He questioned whether the SFZ was becoming a mobile operator rather than focusing on football.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The SFZ is currently facing legal action from two companies, with a third preparing to file a lawsuit. The outcome of these proceedings could significantly impact the financial stability of Slovak football.