Slovak Football Embroiled in Controversy as Minister Accuses SFZ President of Financial Misconduct

A dispute between Rudolf Huliak, the Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Slovak Republic, and Ján Kováčik, President of the Slovak Football Association (SFZ), has escalated with accusations of financial impropriety and potential fraud. The conflict comes just days before the SFZ Conference, where a modern president is to be elected.

Huliak’s Allegations

Minister Huliak publicly accused Kováčik of guaranteeing 30 million euros in assets for the private company Best Press s.r.o., despite the company’s owner having a prior legal conviction. Huliak claims Kováčik independently signed these guarantees, potentially exceeding his authorized limit of 100,000 euros without higher authority consent [Source: Sportnet]. He further suggested that Kováčik used SFZ funds for personal expenses, including luxury goods, and accommodations.

Huliak stated, “Either the three supplier companies or Mr. Kováčik is lying.” He implied that if Kováčik remains in power, the SFZ could face financial ruin, and suggested that Kováčik should be arrested if the law were properly enforced [Source: Sportweb Pravda].

SFZ’s Response

The SFZ vehemently denies Huliak’s claims, stating that it never ordered or received mobile phones worth 30 million euros. The association has pledged to defend itself against what it calls “false documents and information” through legal action [Source: Sportnet].

The SFZ also responded to Huliak’s invitation to a meeting, explaining that the executive committee requested a postponement until after the election conference to avoid any perceived influence on the vote. They accused the minister of pre-judging the situation and rejecting a collaborative approach [Source: Sportnet].

The Upcoming Election

The controversy unfolds just before the SFZ Conference on Friday, where Ján Kováčik, who has held the position since 2010, is seeking re-election. He faces challenges from SFZ General Secretary Peter Palenčík and Martin Filipkov [Source: Sportnet].

Financial Concerns and State Funding

Huliak highlighted that the SFZ receives 14 million euros annually from the state, questioning the responsible use of these funds. He also pointed out that only 1.4 million euros of the 14.4 million euros allocated to football through the Law on Sport actually reaches the clubs [Source: Sportweb Pravda].

Kováčik has previously served with twelve ministers responsible for sport, and according to his statement, none have behaved in a manner he considers unacceptable, damaging to the SFZ and Slovak football [Source: Sportnet].