PNF refers complaint on DR Congo and AS Monaco deal to Monaco authorities | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, France’s National Financial Prosecutor’s Office has formally referred a complaint over the sponsorship between DR Congo and AS Monaco to Monaco’s authorities, citing a lack of geographic jurisdiction.

The complaint, filed on 4 September, alleges money laundering, embezzlement of public funds and corruption, and targets the deal linking the Principality club with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. After several months of analysis in Paris, the case is now with Monaco’s judiciary.

The filing was made by lawyer Hervé Diakiese on behalf of two Congolese citizens living in France, who requested anonymity because of fears of reprisals. The prosecutor’s office considers it has no geographic competence to handle the matter.

The partnership, signed in late June 2025, is worth €4.8 million over three years, or €1.6 million per season. Diakiese singles out sports minister Didier Budimbu, who promoted the premium RD Congo, Heart of Africa campaign. The DRC has also concluded lucrative partnerships with AC Milan and Barcelona.

Monaco previously said it had taken all usual precautions before agreeing the country-promotion deal, including tourism. France’s foreign ministry advises against travel across the DRC for tourists and visitors, saying security conditions are not met.

Diakiese calls the referral a positive step, while noting that Monaco play in France’s league in response to the jurisdiction issue. He says that, if prosecutors do not proceed, there are grounds to seek an investigating judge. The Monaco prosecutor’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

Source: L'Équipe