Mendoza Football League Rocked by Scandal: Sperdutti Resigns Amidst Fraud Allegations
The Mendoza Football League is facing a significant crisis as Omar Sperdutti resigned as president on February 18, 2026, citing health reasons. This follows mounting allegations of financial mismanagement and potential fraud, prompting a government-led intervention and the formation of a normalizing committee comprised of founding clubs.
Financial Irregularities: Millions Diverted to Family Accounts
The core of the scandal revolves around accusations that approximately $130 million pesos were transferred from the League’s official accounts to companies linked to Sperdutti’s family. Investigations reveal substantial sums directed to DHP60 SAS, a firm whose manager is Sonia Elisabeth González, Sperdutti’s wife. Between October 14th and October 24th, 2025, DHP60 SAS received $21 million in three separate transfers.
Further scrutiny points to TRANSOSGUI SA, allegedly controlled by Sperdutti’s children, Hernán Emmanuel Sperdutti and Daiana Ruth Sperdutti. This company reportedly received $108.3 million in multiple transactions beginning in February 2025.
These alleged diversions prompted a formal complaint to the Mendoza Directorate of Legal Entities, leading to a criminal investigation and a raid on the League’s headquarters.
Beyond Finances: Document Forgery and Medical Concerns
The League’s troubles extend beyond financial irregularities. A separate investigation uncovered allegations of document forgery, specifically the unauthorized use of a cardiologist’s signature and seal on at least 58 medical fitness certificates. These certificates originated from the Municipal Workers’ Union of Maipú, which handles player medical assessments for the League.
This raises serious concerns about player safety, as the falsified documents potentially allowed ineligible players to compete. The League, with over 7,400 registered players, is experiencing declining participation and a loss of public trust.
Government Intervention and a New Era
In response to the unfolding crisis, Mendoza’s Minister of Government, Infrastructure and Territorial Development, Natalio Mema, announced Sperdutti’s resignation via X (formerly Twitter) and convened the founding clubs and the current Directing Committee to establish a new leadership structure. The outgoing administration is required to provide a full accounting of its actions to the Directorate of Legal Entities.
The newly formed normalizing committee, composed of representatives from the founding clubs, will be responsible for organizing competitions and implementing administrative reforms.
What Does This Mean for Mendoza Football?
The Sperdutti scandal represents a critical juncture for the Mendoza Football League. Restoring public trust and ensuring financial transparency will be paramount for the new leadership. The League must address the concerns surrounding player safety and implement robust verification procedures for medical certifications.
The situation highlights the importance of strong governance and oversight within sporting organizations. Without these safeguards, leagues are vulnerable to corruption and mismanagement, ultimately harming the integrity of the sport and the interests of its stakeholders.
FAQ
What prompted Omar Sperdutti’s resignation?
Omar Sperdutti resigned citing health reasons, but this followed allegations of financial irregularities and document forgery.
How much money is allegedly involved in the financial scandal?
Approximately $130 million pesos are alleged to have been diverted to companies linked to Sperdutti’s family.
What is the government’s role in the situation?
The Mendoza government, through Minister Natalio Mema, has intervened to oversee the transition and ensure the League’s proper functioning.
What is the normalizing committee?
A committee comprised of representatives from the founding clubs, tasked with organizing competitions and implementing administrative reforms.
What are the concerns regarding medical certificates?
There are allegations that medical fitness certificates were falsified, potentially endangering player safety.
Pro Tip: Transparency and accountability are crucial for rebuilding trust in any organization facing allegations of misconduct. Regular audits and independent oversight can aid prevent future issues.
Did you understand? The investigations into the Mendoza Football League began with a complaint filed by a cardiologist regarding the unauthorized use of her signature on medical documents.
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