Corinthians President Augusto Melo Suspended Amid Corruption Scandal

Augusto Melo has been temporarily removed from his position as president of Corinthians following corruption allegations involving a sponsorship deal. As reported by EFE, the club’s Deliberative Council voted to suspend Melo on Monday night, with vice president Osmar Stábile stepping in as interim president. A general assembly of club members will now decide whether to uphold the suspension or reinstate him.

The São Paulo Civil Police launched an investigation last week, accusing Melo of irregularities in a deal with digital betting company Vai de Bet. Authorities claim a portion of the funds was funneled to a company tied to the PCC, Brazil’s largest criminal organization. Melo has publicly denied any wrongdoing.

In a press conference ahead of the vote, Melo stated he would not resign, though he spoke in what sounded like a farewell tone, highlighting his administration’s financial planning and sponsorship agreements. His tenure, however, has been marred by disappointing results on the field and a high-profile signing—former Barcelona star Memphis Depay—that failed to yield success.