Why Monaco prosecutors opened probe into AS Monaco’s DR Congo deal | OneFootball

Monaco has opened a preliminary investigation into alleged corruption, money laundering and embezzlement linked to AS Monaco’s partnership with DR Congo. The move follows a formal referral from France’s National Financial Prosecutor’s Office last month.

Prosecutor general Stéphane Thibault said an inquiry is under way into the deal, formalised on 24 June 2025. The partnership promotes DR Congo.

The case stems from a 4 September complaint to the PNF by lawyer Hervé Diakiese for two Congolese citizens in France, who want anonymity for fear of reprisals. It targets sports minister and former hydrocarbons minister Didier Budimbu, accused by the plaintiffs of secretly signing a three year, 4.8 million euro contract. On 18 February Budimbu defended the agreement on X, insisting on integrity and on government approved, transparent procedures.

The complaint alleges the contract involved no tender and lacks transparency, does not appear in any finance law and does not reflect public policy adopted by Congo’s parliament. Monaco has maintained that all usual precautions were taken before concluding the promotion agreement.

The probe is being handled by the Principality’s Sûreté publique. Investigators are examining the offences cited by the plaintiffs without taking a view on legal characterisation or on whether the facts occurred, and are focusing on facts rather than individuals before deciding who, if anyone, could face prosecution. DR Congo has also signed image deals with Barcelona and Milan worth nearly 90 million euros, and Diakiese is considering complaints in Spain and Italy.

Source: L'Équipe