The NASL has acted quickly after it was tangentially involved in this morning’s DoJ investigations into FIFA corruption..
It has suspended its Chairperson Aaron Davidson, who was one of the four marketing executives charged this morning.
The three other defendants were the sports marketing executives Alejandro Burzaco, Hugo Jinkis and Mariano Jinkis. A further marketing executive, José Marguiles, was charged as an intermediary.
Two of the four charged worked for affiliates of Traffic Sports who are also the owners of one NASL club Carolina RailHawks.
The NASL statement read:
“In light of the ongoing investigation announced by the U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday, the North American Soccer League’s Board of Governors has suspended Chairperson Aaron Davidson, along with all business activities between the league and Traffic Sports, effective immediately. Commissioner Bill Peterson will serve as acting Chairperson.
The Carolina RailHawks, the sole NASL club owned by Traffic Sports, will continue to operate in the ordinary course of business. The club’s management team will continue to manage the day-to-day operations.”
The statement contrasts with the non-statement released by US Soccer this morning:
“The United States Soccer Federation firmly believes there is no higher priority, and nothing more important, than protecting the integrity of our game. We are committed to the highest ethical standards and business practices, and we will continue to encourage CONCACAF and FIFA to promote the same values. Out of respect for the ongoing investigation, we will not speculate or comment further on this matter at this time.”
Loretta Lynch the US Attorney-General revealed at a press conference this morning that $110m of bribes were involved in bringing the 2016 Gold Cup to the USA.
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