Hot: Vinicius could be banned from playing for 2 years

Vinicius - Photo 1.

Vinicius faces the risk of being banned from playing for 2 years - Photo: REUTERS

On the evening of April 23, the news that Vinicius could be banned from playing for 2 years by FIFA was published by the prestigious Spanish sports newspaper Marca . This 24-year-old star is currently under investigation.

According to Marca , the Real Madrid striker is accused of registering as the owner of several professional football clubs. This could violate international football rules.

Specifically, this could go against Article 20 of the FIFA Code of Ethics and Article 22 of the Spanish Federation's Sports Justice Code, which prohibit active players from directly or indirectly owning professional football clubs.

The investigation stems from a formal complaint lodged with the FIFA Ethics Committee on April 7 by Tiberis Holding do Brasil, a Brazilian company.

Tiberis Holding holds a 16.5% stake in Brazilian club Athletic Club of Sao Joao del Rei. Following the club's promotion to Serie B, Tiberis owner Willy Francese plans to exercise his pre-emptive right to buy a majority stake in Athletic Club.

However, the shares were sold directly to ALL, a company believed to be linked to Vinicius. This prompted the Sao Paulo Commercial Court to suspend the deal pending investigation.

While the investigation was ongoing, ALL took control of the club's operations, causing Tiberis to become extremely angry and file a complaint with FIFA.

Vinicius is also linked with Portuguese club Alverca, raising further concerns about cross-border player transfers and competitive fairness.

Vinicius - Photo 2.

Vinicius is still having a great season with Real Madrid - Photo: REUTERS

Marca said the maximum penalty for such a breach is a two-year ban. While a ban is the most severe option, other penalties such as heavy financial penalties or being forced to sell ownership stakes are also being considered.

Since joining Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has won 14 major trophies, including two Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles. This season, he has continued his fine form with 21 goals and 15 assists in 47 games in all competitions.

Previously, he also rejected "huge" offers from Saudi Arabia to extend his contract with Real Madrid until 2030.

Therefore, this investigation, if it leads to a heavy penalty, could force Real Madrid to plan for a future without Vinicius Jr.

FIFA has not yet made an official decision. They are reviewing the complaint with the Ethics Committee to make a final decision.