Slovak Football Federation on the Brink: President Faces Scrutiny Over €24 Million Guarantee
The Slovak Football Federation (SFZ) is facing a potential financial crisis as allegations surface regarding President Ján Kováčik’s decision to guarantee a substantial loan for a private company, Best Press. Investigations by the Ján Kuciak Investigative Centre (ICJK) reveal the guarantee exceeds €24 million, now claimed by creditors.
A Risky Guarantee for a Controversial Firm
Kováčik, acting on behalf of the SFZ, reportedly secured financing for Best Press, a company whose owner, Ján Šipoš, was recently convicted of fraud. The SFZ’s financial exposure stems from transactions involving companies SWAN, Asbis Sk, and Apex Services, primarily centered around the purchase of tens of thousands of Apple iPhones.
The scale of the potential losses is alarming. While current claims exceed €24 million, they could escalate to €35 million, threatening the very existence of the SFZ. This comes at a critical juncture, with SFZ’s projected income for 2026 balancing precariously against projected expenditures of approximately €27.6 million.
Internal Concerns and Questionable Authority
Reports from an Executive Committee meeting suggest Kováčik appeared “frightened” and deferred to legal counsel when confronted with the issue. Concerns are also being raised about whether Kováčik exceeded his authority in approving such a large guarantee. SFZ regulations typically limit the president’s signing power to €100,000 without approval from the Executive Committee or the SFZ Conference.
Documents reviewed by ICJK indicate the guarantee extended to the full amount of the transactions, far surpassing the president’s authorized limit. The agreement with Apex Services explicitly states the SFZ’s liability covers the “entire amount” of the debt.
Conflicting Statements and Allegations of Misleading Information
Kováčik has maintained he believed he was operating within his authority, limiting the guarantee to €100,000. However, this claim is contradicted by the terms of the agreements. He initially denied signing a letter requesting a quote for 75,000 phones, then claimed the document was illogical, before stating he never signed it.
Šipoš, the owner of Best Press, asserts the SFZ was fully aware of the commitments made in the agreements. He claims the SFZ was informed about the details of the transactions and the associated risks.
Growing Opposition and Calls for Accountability
Peter Sepeši, a member of the SFZ Executive Committee and a prosecutor by profession, has voiced strong objections to Kováčik’s actions, deeming them legally and economically reckless. He has reportedly lost confidence in Kováčik’s leadership.
The situation has also drawn the attention of the Minister of Transport and Sports, Rudolf Huliak, who temporarily suspended funding to the SFZ pending an investigation into the irregularities.
The Upcoming Election and a Future in Doubt
The controversy unfolds just days before the SFZ presidential election on February 27, 2026. Kováčik is running for re-election against Peter Palenčík, the current General Secretary. Despite calls for him to step down, Kováčik has confirmed he will remain a candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the total amount at risk for the SFZ? The SFZ is potentially liable for over €24 million, with the possibility of reaching €35 million.
- Who is Ján Šipoš? Ján Šipoš is the owner of Best Press, the company the SFZ guaranteed loans for, and was recently convicted of fraud.
- What is the role of Ján Kováčik? Ján Kováčik is the President of the Slovak Football Federation and signed the guarantee for Best Press.
- What is the SFZ’s financial situation? The SFZ’s projected income and expenditures for 2026 are nearly balanced, but the potential losses from the guarantee could lead to a financial crisis.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the SFZ election and the ongoing investigation. The outcome will significantly impact the future of Slovak football.
Did you know? The SFZ previously purchased printers worth €16,000 from Best Press in 2020.
We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Explore our other articles on Slovak football and financial governance in sports for further insights.
